Manarcaud panchayat’s old shopping complex is in a precarious condition

Manarcaud: The dilapidated condition of the old shopping complex of the Manarcaud panchayat in Kottayam is posing a danger to shopkeepers and customers. A few chunks of concrete even fell from the roof above the first floor of the building on Wednesday night.

Three business outlets, including electronic shops, function on the ground floor of the complex and the concrete was seen in front of these establishments. Even though the deterioration is mostly seen on the first floor of the building, steel rods are exposed at several areas of the ground floor roof also.

There were demands to demolish the building and construct a new shopping complex, but no action has been taken by the authorities. ‘Malayala Manorama’ had earlier reported on the pathetic condition of the shopping complex.

Responding to the issue, Manarcaud panchayat president K C Biju said the local body had informed the state government about the condition of the building.

“The panchayat committee has also decided to demolish the first floor and sell the materials. We are planning to provide a roof made of sheets for the ground floor, which does not have problems at present,” he said.