In Thrissur, a recent document verification has uncovered a troubling fact: the building that partially collapsed amid heavy rains had been granted a structural stability certificate just six months prior. This certificate, issued by the Civil Engineering Department of the Government Engineering College, Thrissur, claimed the building was safe despite it having deteriorated dangerously for years.

Further investigation revealed that several building owners, whose properties had been marked by the Thrissur Corporation as “immediate demolition” candidates, had similarly secured such certificates. This appears to be a tactic to avoid legal consequences and delay demolition.

The Corporation had previously assigned the Civil Engineering Department to scientifically assess these risky buildings using modern technology and methods. The collapsed building, situated between Kuruppam Road and Marar Road on Swaraj Round, failed during the recent heavy downpour. Following the collapse, the Tahsildar submitted a detailed report to the District Collector, highlighting the high risk of the remaining structure falling.

The report advised that if the owners did not voluntarily demolish the building, the Corporation should proceed under the Disaster Management Act. Acting on the Collector’s orders, demolition work has now begun.

What remains unclear is how such a severely unsafe building received a structural stability certificate. The certificate contains a declaration from the issuing officer confirming inspection and structural soundness.

While engineers from the Public Works Department and the Corporation also issue such certificates, they typically refuse approval for visibly unstable buildings. These certificates, valid for a year, are often renewed and used by owners to obtain court stays against demolition.

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