The Cuttack administration continues to delay action on 221 structurally unsafe buildings identified across the city four months ago, despite a recent balcony collapse that claimed three lives and growing concerns among residents.
High Court Directive Ignored
On August 13, additional district magistrate Shibo Toppo submitted a comprehensive report to the Orissa High Court highlighting the alarming number of dangerous structures spread across multiple localities including Choudhury Bazar, Nimasahi, Bakharabad, Nimchouri, Mangalabag and Sutahat.
The court had taken serious note of the situation and directed the district administration to submit a detailed affidavit and status report on the progress of eviction from these hazardous buildings. However, months after this judicial directive, no concrete action has been initiated to address the looming threat.
Residents Living in Fear
The urgency of the situation was tragically highlighted on Saturday when three persons died after the balcony of a dilapidated building collapsed at Mani Sahu Chowk. This incident has amplified concerns among citizens, particularly because many of the identified unsafe structures are located in densely populated areas.
"Most of the dilapidated buildings in our area have several people living in them and many have made godowns. Authorities are yet to vacate and demolish these structures," said Ranjit Mallick, a resident of Choudhury Bazar, expressing the frustration shared by many locals.
Expert Warnings and Official Response
Urban planning experts have cautioned that continued inaction could lead to more life-threatening accidents. "Without timely intervention, the city risks another structural collapse," warned urban expert M R Khan, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action.
While the administration claims that eviction notices have been issued to several property owners, the absence of a clear demolition timeline reflects what sources describe as administrative inertia.
High Court lawyer Jyoti Ranjan Mohanty expressed surprise at the delay, stating: "For now, the list of 221 unsafe buildings remains just another document — while the danger continues to loom. It's surprising why the authorities are not acting even after four months of the HC directive."
Cuttack collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde offered assurance, saying: "We are fully aware of the risks posed by the identified unsafe structures. We are verifying all documents. Eviction and demolition will be carried out in a phased and time-bound manner soon."
However, with the monsoon season approaching and many of the identified buildings being century-old structures, residents continue to live in fear, waiting for the promised action to materialize before another tragedy strikes.
