No clear solution for Konthuruthy families; Kochi Corporation to move Kerala High Court for extension of deadline for eviction and rehabilitation

The fate of 126 families along the Konthuruthy river puramboke hangs in the balance after a meeting convened by the Kochi Corporation failed to produce any tangible solution, other than deciding to approach the Kerala High Court seeking more time for eviction and rehabilitation.

The Corporation also resolved to form a 10-member committee, including two councillors from the divisions concerned, to represent the interests of the affected families.

The meeting was convened by the newly elected governing committee of the Corporation after repeated complaints from the families that neither the court nor the Corporation had heard their grievances. In an interim order dated December 16, 2025, the High Court directed eviction with police assistance, while entrusting the Kochi Corporation and the Revenue department to finalise and implement rehabilitation measures within four months. At a subsequent meeting convened by the Chief Secretary on December 31, 2025 to initiate rehabilitation measures, it was recommended that out of the ₹14 lakh a unit estimated for rehabilitation, ₹4.75 lakh—over and above the ₹9.25 lakh permissible under the LIFE Mission—should be raised by the Corporation.

Mayor V.K. Minimol said that with the Assembly election notification expected next month, the Corporation has little time to resolve the issue and is left with no option but to approach the court on Tuesday (January 13, 2026) for an extension of the deadline. A delegation led by the Mayor is also seeking appointments with the Chief Minister and the Finance Minister, likely on January 22, to request assistance in resolving the matter. “Even if the Corporation is to bridge the gap between the LIFE Mission allocation and the estimated rehabilitation cost, despite its precarious financial situation, it would require the State government’s permission. Though an action council was formed, there was no point of contact to communicate with the affected families. That is why the formation of a 10-member committee has been recommended, with instructions to submit the minutes of its meetings,” said Ms. Minimol.

The Konthuruthy Action Council expressed frustration over lack of clarity regarding rehabilitation or compensation. “The houses are in very bad shape, endangering the lives of occupants. But with eviction looming, spending on maintenance is futile. We will resist any eviction move without clarity on rehabilitation or compensation,” said P.B. Siju, convener of the council. He also questioned how the figure of ₹14 lakh was arrived at, pointing out that as per the court verdict, compensation should be around ₹19 lakh a family. “We are ordinary people who cannot afford litigation to fight for our rights, and that is why politicians keep exploiting us,” he said.