The Odisha Government has intensified its efforts to protect citizens from unsafe and structurally vulnerable buildings across urban areas. The Housing and Urban Development Department has launched a 15-day inspection and assessment drive to identify buildings that may pose a threat to public safety and property.
The campaign covers both government and private buildings. Inspection teams will conduct detailed assessments of suspected unsafe structures and evaluate their structural condition and safety. Reports will be submitted within the stipulated timeframe, following which necessary legal action will be taken.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said dangerous government buildings had already been assessed and notices had been issued wherever required. He said another review meeting was held with the department recently to expedite further action.
According to the Minister, buildings found to be critically unsafe will face action under the existing laws and regulations. Where necessary, such structures may be demolished to prevent accidents and protect lives.
The department will also coordinate with other government departments regarding unsafe buildings under their jurisdiction. The concerned authorities will be informed and asked to take appropriate action.
Private buildings have also been brought under the scope of the campaign. Structures found to be dangerous or severely weakened will be inspected, and owners may be served notices if violations or safety concerns are established.
The inspection drive is expected to be particularly significant in older cities such as Cuttack and Puri, where several ageing and structurally weak buildings have remained in use for years. Urban local bodies and other authorities will assist the inspection teams.
The government said the initiative is primarily preventive, aimed at identifying risks before accidents occur. The department will coordinate with urban local bodies to ensure inspections, notices and legal action are completed within the prescribed timeframe.
The government reiterated that public safety remains a top priority and that unsafe structures posing a threat to citizens will not be ignored.