Abhilash P. Parameswaran, president of the P&T Apartment Owners Association, is preparing to file his nomination as an Independent candidate for the Mundamveli East division in the upcoming Kochi Corporation elections. Frustrated by persistent leaks and declining living conditions, residents of the P&T Apartment Complex have opted to boycott candidates from all major political parties, choosing instead to support their own representative.
Saritha Madhavan, the association’s secretary, emphasizes their collective frustration: “We have had enough. With over 300 votes from our two apartments, we believe it’s time to elect someone who can effectively advocate for our concerns.” This grassroots movement arises from the ongoing neglect felt by residents since they relocated to Mundamveli from the previously flood-prone P&T Colony.
In January 2024, 77 families were transferred to the new apartment complex built by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) after the colony experienced regular inundation during heavy rains. Unfortunately, the situation did not improve; residents reported leaks in the apartments beginning with the first showers in February. “Since moving here, we have seen no progress, only waste management issues and leaking roofs,” Parameswaran asserts. Prior to their relocation, they had witnessed Kochi’s development closely, noting that their current living conditions starkly contrast with their past experiences.
The last division councillor, Mary Calista Prakashan, has faced criticism for not addressing the residents’ needs. With the division split into two-Mundamveli and Mundamveli East-Prakashan is now contesting in Mundamveli while her husband, K.J. Prakashan, is campaigning in Mundamveli East as an LDF candidate.
Addressing the pressing issue of leaks, in June, the GCDA engaged IIT Madras as a consultant to investigate structural problems affecting the Mundamveli apartments. This collaboration led to the issuance of a stability certificate by the esteemed institution, a necessary step for commencing approved renovation work, which is expected to be funded by local MLA K.J. Maxy.
IIT Madras has been given four months to explore and recommend sustainable solutions for the complex. However, a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in July assured residents that renovations would commence once the institute submitted its report. As of now, residents like Madhavan have expressed concern over the lack of updates. “We haven’t heard from IIT Madras since September, and the promised temporary fix for the leaks hasn’t begun,” she notes.
As the elections approach, the P&T Apartment residents are determined to ensure their grievances are addressed. With hopes pinned on Parameswaran’s candidacy, they aim to bring attention to their living conditions and advocate for necessary changes at the local governance level. Their decision to rally behind a candidate from within their community reflects a growing sentiment that grassroots movements can lead to significant change, especially when standard avenues have failed.
In a political landscape often dominated by party lines, the P&T Apartment residents are taking matters into their own hands, demonstrating the power of collective action in seeking accountability from their elected representatives.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kerala-local-body-polls-fed-up-with-neglect-mundamveli-apartment-residents-to-field-own-candidate/article70298055.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-11-20 09:38:00
