Maradu flats will be reduced to seven-storey tall pile of debris

Kochi: If the demolition of Maradu Flats goes as planned, the concern is regarding the amount of debris left at the spot.

According to experts, one storey of the building will create a one-metre-tall pile of debris. The demolition will create a seven-storey tall pile of debris.

However, it is difficult to predict how far will the dust from the demolition spread. Dust settlement is highly influenced by wind direction and speed. For the last two days, wind has been moving from north to south and east.

Water to be sprayed after demolition

Once the buildings are demolished, water will be sprayed on top of the debris by Fire and Rescue Service personnel. Roads in the area will be washed after the demolition. Water from the lake will also be used.

The dust is expected to be in the 2.5 and 10 Particulate Matter (PM) range. But if dust crosses a particular height, it could not be controlled by water.  

Respirable dust sampler to be used

To inspect the amount and density of dust in the area after the demolition, a respirable dust sampler has been set up near the flats.

Dust particles below 2.5 pm dangerous

The dust will cause problems for people with respiratory ailments. However, if the dust is below 2.5 particular matter, it will cause problems even for the healthy general public.

The demolition will affect the environment in a one kilometre radius around the demolition site. The concrete waste will pollute the lake besides causing sound and air pollution.  

Concrete to be reused

The task of removing concrete debris from all the four flats has been entrusted with Prompt Enterprises Pvt Ltd. The contract was given to the Moovattupuzha based company considering their experience in the field.

The debris will be deposited at the company’s land near Aroor. The concrete, steel and iron rods from the debris will be reused.