Opposition protests over neglect of public halls in Maradu
ochi: Opposition councillors in Maradu municipality staged a protest on Sunday, accusing the local body of neglecting public halls and delaying much-needed renovation work.
The councillors alleged that the inaction was deliberate and benefitted private groups at the expense of residents, many of whom rely on the facilities during the festive season of Onam.
Three major public halls under the municipality —EK Nayanar Hall, Priyadarshini Hall and BR Ambedkar Hall— have fallen into disrepair, said councillors. Opposition leader C R Shanavas said non-functioning ceiling fans and faulty lighting plague all three halls, making them unsuitable for community events.
"At EK Nayanar Hall, the situation is particularly dire. Beds that were temporarily stored in the kitchen during Covid-19 crisis still remain piled up. No major repairs were carried out in the past five years, leaving the facility in a state of neglect," said Shanavas.
Municipality's apathy is forcing people to depend on private halls, which are significantly costly, he said. "The absence of functioning, affordable halls has disrupted cultural and religious gatherings. This is a clear attempt to benefit private interests," he alleged.
The opposition demanded the municipality intervene immediately to restore the halls and ensure them ready for public use.
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