Kalamassery blasts: Restrictions at convention centre put venue bookers, victims in a fix

Kalamassery: Tension looms as two families, eagerly anticipate the reopening of the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre in Kalamassery, following the recent blast. They had booked the venue for two wedding parties scheduled on November 4 and 6.

In the aftermath of the explosion, the entire building and its surroundings remain under strict police control. The upcoming wedding reception of Kalamassery resident Ashraf's son, set to host around 2,000 guests, is scheduled for the 6. With the convention centre in question, the families are exploring alternative arrangements.

The Zamra Convention Center, a prominent venue in Kalamassery spanning 26,000 sq.ft., charges a daily rent of Rs 3 lakhs plus taxes. The blast caused significant damage, destroying approximately 100 chairs with cushioned seats and steel frames, along with around thirty-floor tiles covering an area of one square metre. The entire building was blackened by the smoke.

Riyas Manakkatan, Managing Director of Zamra Convention Center, expressed concerns about the venue's readiness for the scheduled events. He stated that if the building is not vacated by Wednesday, it would be challenging to facilitate the wedding party. Extensive repairs, including painting, installing new tiles, and acquiring replacement chairs, are necessary.

Meanwhile, in Kochi, members of Jehovah's Witnesses, despite the lingering shock from the explosion, attempted to retrieve their lost belongings from the Kalamassery Zamra Convention Center. Disappointment marred their efforts as access to the hall was denied, and their bags were not returned. Many individuals, unable to retrieve essential items during the chaos of the blast, waited anxiously for hours. While some received their vehicles, precious belongings such as house keys, money, cards, and mobile phones remained inside the locked hall.

Police officials cited security reasons for restricting access to the hall and withholding the release of bags, leaving those affected in a state of frustration and uncertainty.