Kerala Human Rights Panel Orders Probe Into Leaking Apartments Affecting Students
Kerala SHRC orders probe into leaking P&T Apartments at Mundamveli, where rainwater and toilet water have affected school attendance of children.
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ordered an inquiry into the leaking P&T Apartments at Mundamveli, where rainwater and sewage seepage have disrupted the education of resident children. Commission chairperson Alexander Thomas has sought a detailed report from the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA).
The apartment complex houses around 65 schoolchildren. Residents report that schoolbags and books have been repeatedly soaked due to leaks that began two years ago. The commission acted on a petition filed by activist Thampy Subramanyam.
Seventy-eight families were relocated to the twin towers from a colony in the city centre in January 2024. The apartments reportedly began leaking during the first showers in February that year. Residents have been protesting for nearly 50 days, demanding rehabilitation in new structures.
The issue came to light when K.P. Priya, headmistress of SDPY Boys' High School, Palluruthy, visited the complex after an eighth-standard student remained absent for nearly a fortnight at the start of the academic year in June. The boy returned after school authorities spoke to his father, but stopped attending again when rains intensified.
"We were shocked to find the unhygienic conditions in which he was living," Ms. Priya said. The P&T Apartment Owners Association has since identified five more students from various schools missing classes for the same reason. Association president Abhilash P. Parameswaran said children are experiencing psychological trauma and anxiety, unable to study, eat, or sit indoors during rain.
Councillor K.J. Prakashan held the GCDA responsible, noting the authority is accountable for issues reported within five years of construction. The GCDA has submitted rectification measures recommended by IIT Madras to the state government for approval. The original estimate of around ₹16 crore exceeded the construction cost; after negotiations, it was reduced to about ₹6.50 crore. The towers were built at a cost of ₹15 crore, jointly funded under PMAY, Life Mission, and Cochin Smart Mission Limited.