A tragic incident in Kozhikode’s Valiyangadi market claimed four lives when the sunshade of a dilapidated Corporation-owned building collapsed on resting head-load workers. The delay in demolishing the aging structure, despite earlier decisions, has sparked outrage over civic negligence.
Incident Details
The collapse occurred around noon on February 22, 2026, near the fish market, trapping workers under a 50-meter sunshade from a pre-1975 building once used as a passport office. Victims included Jabbar and Ashraf (killed instantly), Basheer, and Vinod (55, from Thiruvangoor, who died later in hospital). Four others were injured; rescue involved fire services cutting through concrete slabs.
Corporation’s Role
Kozhikode Corporation Council decided in 2024 to demolish the unsafe three-storey building and planned a Spices Tower in its place, with tenders floated but never executed. Despite visible damage like weakened pillars and exposed rods, the Mayor claimed it was “officially not unfit,” allowing a new firm, Ganesh Traders, to operate there three months ago. Traders and opposition leaders allege ignored complaints, no warning boards, and court stays enabling continued use.
Public Reaction
Head-load workers launched protests and a flash strike, halting goods movement and demanding accountability. BJP councillors led marches to Corporation offices, alleging corruption and calling for audits of all old buildings. Traders cited vested interests in delays, noting many had vacated voluntarily.
Read more at: https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2026/02/23/kozhikode-building-collapse-corporation-delayed-demolition.html