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Apartment owners across Kochi have sought government assistance following power disconnection warnings from the electricity board over the absence of sewage treatment plants (STPs). More than 70 apartment complexes were issued notices, leaving over 1,500 households anxious. Residents cited limited space, high installation costs, and pre-existing municipal STPs as reasons for non-compliance. The community has proposed interim measures and plans to seek formal intervention from state authorities.
Earlier this month, apartment associations in Kochi voiced concern over electricity disconnection notices issued by the Kerala State Electricity Board to 71 residential complexes. These were linked to the absence of sewage treatment plants, prompting anxiety among more than 1,500 households. The associations explained that many of these buildings were constructed before STP norms came into effect and now lack sufficient space or funds for retrofitting treatment systems. Advertisement
Several resident bodies, including the Consortium of Flat and Villa Owners Associations, expressed that instead of immediate enforcement, officials should have considered allowing continued use of nearby municipal treatment facilities. Many complexes have already been diverting sewage to such existing units, and residents argued that forcing individual STPs would duplicate infrastructure and strain finances.
Residents also proposed alternative methods such as converting unused swimming pools into temporary treatment units. They expressed intent to approach the state government and the chief minister's office, requesting flexibility in implementation timelines. The groups contended that stricter compliance should coincide with the completion of large-scale city-wide water treatment infrastructure currently under development.
In response, the High Court directed the Pollution Control Board to grant reasonable time to those who show genuine efforts to comply with the rules. Associations maintained that environmental responsibility must be upheld but not at the cost of practical feasibility for thousands of apartment dwellers.
With many older buildings facing spatial and financial limitations, residents hoped the government would acknowledge these structural challenges. They remained committed to cooperation but insisted that the push for infrastructure compliance must be accompanied by adequate support and alternative solutions. Dialogue with state authorities is expected in the coming days as communities press for a resolution that ensures both sustainability and fairness.
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