Kochi Corporation has petitioned the state government to amend the Kerala Municipal Building Rules (KMBR) so that any lifting of an existing structure requires a pre‑approved licence from the corporation. The demand comes in the wake of a recent incident on M.G. Road where a two‑storey building, being raised with hydraulic jacks, tilted onto an adjacent multi‑storey commercial property.

Incident Overview

Located near Jos Junction, a 60‑year‑old residential building was being lifted to address chronic water‑logging. On the evening of July 7, 2026, the hydraulic jack failed, causing the upper portion of the structure to lean and press against the neighboring commercial block. The mishap not only jeopardised structural integrity but also placed tenants of both buildings at immediate risk.

Immediate Corporate Action

The corporation issued a demolition notice to the owner, demanding that the building be razed at his own expense by July 10, 2026. Should the owner fail to comply, the corporation will carry out the demolition and recover the costs. Mayor V.K. Minimol explained, “We currently have little control over building‑lifting activities because no licence is required, despite the serious implications for structural safety. Such works appear to be widespread now, unlike the past when they were rare.”

Rationale for Rule Change

Mayor Minimol has written to the Local Self‑Government Minister and the Chief Minister, urging that a licence be made mandatory for any lifting operation. The proposed amendment aims to curb unregulated lifts that often exacerbate water‑logging and compromise public safety, thereby bringing greater transparency and oversight to urban development projects.

Potential Impact

If enacted, the rule change could set a precedent for other fast‑growing Indian cities, strengthening construction safety standards nationwide. Urban planning experts suggest that mandatory licensing will not only reduce accidental structural failures but also enhance accountability among developers, ultimately protecting citizens and preserving municipal revenue.

On‑Site Inspection Details

A delegation comprising Public Works Standing Committee Chairperson T.K. Asharaf, Development Standing Committee Chairperson Shakrita Sureshbabu, Division Councillor K.V.P. Krishnakumar, Corporation Secretary P.S. Shibu, the superintendent engineer, and an overseer inspected the site. They documented damage to the lower portion of the tilted building and issued eviction notices to tenants occupying the precariously balanced commercial structure. Contingency plans were also discussed for the possible evacuation of occupants from the Coconut Board office located behind the affected building.