KOCHI: Time is running out for the over 240 commercial establishments at Panampilly Nagar that have been operating without license. The Kochi Corporation has made it clear that they are left with no choice but to close down the shops in the wake of the High Court order.
As per the order issued by the court to the civic body, all the 240 establishments in the vicinity have to be closed down by March 31.
The Single Bench order came after a few residents approached the court alleging that the commercial establishments were affecting their privacy and peace of mind.
Though the Corporation had unanimously passed a resolution seeking the state government to declare the premium residential area as ‘mixed zone’, it has not yet got the nod.
“The Corporation has already passed a resolution last August to declare it as mixed zone. However, the government is yet to act on it. We have two month’s time and if the government does not pass the resolution, we will be forced to shut down the establishments,” said Mayor Soumini Jain.
Corporation secretary Haritha V Kumar too said they are bound to act as per the court decision.
“We are bound to act on the law. So far we haven’t received the order from the court. The plan of action will be taken based on the law,” said secretary.
Protests flare up
Tension is brewing between the shop owners and residents over the issue. Though the Corporation had earlier closed down over 140 illegal commercial establishments as per the High Court order, it drew flak from the shop owners. And, it was then that the council decided to pass a resolution to declare it a mixed zone.
“Around 740 such establishments function here, of which 240 do not have license. Most of them have spend a hefty amount for setting up the establishments. Over 5,000 people, directly and indirectly, reap the benefits. So, it is better to issue license to all the establishments but stop giving permission to set up new ones,” said Antony Painuthara, councillor, Panampilly Nagar.
However, the residents association has argued the Corporation has no right to recommend a ‘mixed zone’ as there is a case pending before the High Court. “Besides, the Housing Board Rules and DTP Scheme do not recommend any commercial activity in the zone. There is a plot already marked for commercial purposes. But, these business establishments are coming up in the residential zone,” says a resident.