Heritage concreted over
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With many unauthorised buildings and shops having come up in gross violation of heritage norms around it, Fort Kochi is in danger of losing its old world charm.
Not just small wayside shops, but multi-storied hotels too are being built here illegally in total disregard for the Fort’s heritage value.
Although the State Art and Heritage Commission does not permit the building of modern structures in the area, new buildings are allegedly coming up in breach of approved plans.
“Under the law, building plans must be submitted to the State Art and Heritage Commission, the town planning department and city corporation. But none of the new buildings in the area have plans approved by the commission,” says town planning committee chairman, K.J. Sohan.
The issue was debated at the recent council meeting and several Opposition councillors alleged that the Town Planning Committee had given completion certificates to many modern buildings in Fort Kochi in violation of rules.
“With new buildings and illegal shops, Fort Kochi is slowly losing its traditional charm. Modern concrete structures painted in flashy colours are spoiling the character of the heritage zone. Worse, many heritage buildings are being pulled down or renovated,” said councillor Adv. Antony Kureethara.
The secretary of the local self-government department has reportedly instructed the corporation secretary to do an inspection and take immediate action to curb illegal construction.
Secretary of the Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (C-HeD), Dr Rajan Chedambath, meanwhile, claims that the archaeological department has recently strengthened the laws for conservation of heritage zones.
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