Kochi Corporation Faces Uphill Battle in Canal Rehabilitation
The Kochi Corporation finds itself in a tight spot. The High Court has ordered immediate action to rehabilitate residents living along the Konthuruthy canal shores. Yet, confusion and delays continue to plague the process.
Court Directives Ignored
Back in 2020, the High Court first instructed the district administration and Kochi Corporation to take rehabilitation steps. The local body failed to follow through. Last month, the court issued another stern order. It gave the corporation just four months to complete the rehabilitation work.
Even after one month has passed since this latest verdict, the corporation authorities have made little progress. They claim they have not yet received the formal court order. Mayor VK Minimol stated they will plan their next moves only after obtaining the order. This includes their request for a deadline extension.
Compensation Conundrum
The core issue revolves around money. A meeting led by the chief secretary proposed a solution. It suggested providing Rs 14 lakh to each of the 129 affected families. This money would help them move out and build new homes.
However, the state government has presented a different figure. It says it can only offer Rs 9.25 lakh per family. This amount breaks down into two parts. Rs 5.25 lakh is for purchasing land. Another Rs 4 lakh is for constructing a house within corporation limits.
This leaves a significant shortfall. The Kochi Corporation must find the remaining Rs 4.75 lakh for each family on its own. In total, the local body needs to mobilize around Rs 6 crore. Raising such a large sum independently poses a major challenge for the corporation.
Financial Roadblocks Deepen
Recent developments have made the situation even more difficult. The state government now says it cannot provide the promised Rs 9.25 lakh immediately. This shifts the entire financial burden onto the Kochi Corporation. They must find all the funds required for rehabilitation themselves.
The residents continue to wait in limbo. High Court orders demand swift action. Yet, technical hurdles and funding gaps create a cycle of delay. The corporation's struggle to comply highlights deeper issues in urban governance and disaster management.
People living on the canal shores face ongoing uncertainty. Their hope for a safe and secure home remains unfulfilled. The clock is ticking on the court's four-month deadline, adding pressure to an already complex situation.
