The Buwelikada Tragedy

The recent tragedy in Kandy resulting in the deaths of three innocent lives inclusive of an infant, has shaken and touched the hearts of many. Several investigations and inquiries are being held to ascertain the cause of this tragedy. According to preliminary investigations it appears certain that authorities failed to conduct post construction reviews.

Any individual seeking approval to construct a building is required to submit an approved building Plan. Once the approval is granted, the constructor is required to strictly adhere to the terms of approval, deviations if any, are strictly prohibited. On completion of the construction, it is mandatory to obtain a document defined as the COC, i.e., certificate of conformity which confirms the completion of the building in accordance with the original approved plan. This certificate authorizes the owner to occupy the completed building. In most cases, there appears to be no system of follow-up, nor inspection to ensure the completion of the building according to the approved plan and the issuance of the COC.

This unfortunate tragedy, in my opinion, could have been prevented if the relevant authorities adhered to the requisite followup and the issuance of the COC. Such follow-ups and the issuance of COC should be strictly enforced to avoid any repetition of tragedies of this nature. M.C.V. RAJANATHAN HENDALA, WATTALA