Safety concerns prompt action on crumbling civic buildings in Kozhikode

The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ordered the Kozhikode District Collector to conduct a comprehensive review of the structural integrity of buildings managed by the Kozhikode Corporation and other civic infrastructure in the district. The directive comes after recent inspections revealed widespread deterioration, including significant cracks and water seepage in multiple Corporation-owned structures that pose potential safety risks to occupants and the public.

The Commission has given the District Collector a three-week deadline to submit a detailed report documenting the steps taken to inspect ageing buildings across the district and outline concrete measures to prevent accidents and further deterioration. This timeline aims to ensure swift action on what authorities acknowledge as an urgent infrastructure maintenance issue.

The discovery of structural defects in municipal buildings highlights growing concerns about the maintenance and upkeep of public infrastructure in the city. Poorly maintained structures not only endanger occupants but also increase the risk of accidents that could result in injuries or loss of life, particularly during monsoon seasons when water infiltration accelerates damage.

The SHRC's intervention underscores the need for regular audits and proactive maintenance programmes for civic buildings. Authorities are expected to develop a comprehensive action plan addressing immediate repairs, long-term maintenance schedules, and preventive measures to ensure the safety and durability of public infrastructure in Kozhikode district.