The Odisha government has announced an accelerated drive to identify and demolish unsafe buildings across the state following the tragic building collapse in Cuttack that claimed three lives, including that of a young child.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said on Sunday that the government has directed officials to immediately intensify the process of identifying and dismantling dilapidated or hazardous structures—whether owned by the government or private individuals.
“The Works Department is responsible for declaring a building unsafe, while the Urban Development Department will ensure its demolition. The government will take responsibility for unsafe government buildings, but private owners must act responsibly and cooperate in the process,” Mahapatra stated.
The minister added that regular inspections of government buildings are already underway and that any structure deemed unsafe will be demolished without delay. “The Works Department has been empowered to take immediate action, even against unsafe government offices,” he emphasized.
Cuttack Tragedy Triggers Urgent Action
The announcement came a day after a fatal building collapse at Mani Sahu Chhak in Cuttack. The incident resulted in the deaths of Abdul Jalil, Abdul Zahid, and a five-year-old child, while two others sustained serious injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported that the structure had long been abandoned and was in a fragile condition. Rescue teams from the Fire Services Department, supported by local volunteers, managed to pull several people from the rubble, though three victims were declared dead on arrival at the hospital.
Old Buildings Under Fresh Scrutiny
The tragedy has renewed focus on the alarming number of ageing, unmaintained buildings across Cuttack and other urban centers in Odisha. Despite previous directions from the Orissa High Court to demolish unsafe structures, many remain occupied or neglected.
Minister Mahapatra said that demolition of dangerous private and public buildings will now be carried out on a priority basis. He further urged civic bodies and property owners to proactively assess their premises and report unsafe conditions to local authorities.
Government to Review Urban Safety Framework
Officials confirmed that the Housing and Urban Development Department is preparing to revise safety assessment norms for old structures, ensuring stricter enforcement of maintenance standards. A new statewide safety audit of multi-storey buildings is also expected to begin shortly.
The minister reassured that the government’s priority is to prevent avoidable loss of life and restore public confidence in building safety across Odisha’s cities.
