Bhubaneswar, 08 September (H.S.): The Odisha Government has intensified its drive to identify and take action against unsafe and dilapidated buildings posing risks to public safety and property across the State.

Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said the Government has already assessed unsafe government buildings and issued notices wherever necessary. Following a fresh review, officials have been directed to expedite action against structures found to be dangerous.

“Very soon, notices will be issued for demolition of buildings that have been found unsafe,” Dr Mahapatra said.

The Minister said buildings under the Housing & Urban Development Department would be dealt with by the Department, while unsafe structures belonging to other government departments would be brought to the notice of the respective authorities for necessary action.

The Government has also decided to include unsafe private buildings in the ongoing safety assessment. Owners of private structures found to be dangerous or structurally vulnerable will be issued notices in accordance with applicable rules.

A 15-day inquiry and inspection team has been constituted to conduct detailed assessments of buildings identified as potentially unsafe. The team will examine their structural condition and submit its findings within the stipulated period.

Based on the inspection report, authorities will initiate appropriate action, including demolition of structures found to pose a serious threat to public safety, wherever warranted.

The Minister said the initiative assumes particular significance in cities such as Cuttack and Puri, where several old and privately owned buildings require closer inspection. Urban Local Bodies and other concerned authorities will identify structures that could pose risks to residents, pedestrians and the general public.

The Government said the exercise is primarily preventive and aimed at addressing structural risks before they result in loss of life or property. The Housing & Urban Development Department will coordinate with Urban Local Bodies and other departments to ensure timely inspections, issuance of notices and subsequent action.

The Government has reiterated that public safety remains a priority and that structures posing serious risks will not be allowed to remain unattended.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda