The demolition of a two-storey structure that remains precariously tilted against an adjacent multi-storey commercial building near Woodland Junction along M.G. Road has been deferred.

The decision followed advice from the structural stability expert engaged by the Kochi Corporation, who warned that proceeding without precautionary measures could endanger not only nearby buildings but also workers tasked with the demolition.

According to Corporation records, the 60-year-old house tilted after a hydraulic jack used to lift it gave way on Tuesday (July 7, 2026) evening. On Thursday (July 9, 2026), the Corporation issued an ultimatum to the owner to demolish the building at his own expense by Friday (July 10, 2026). Failing compliance, the Corporation had warned that it would undertake the demolition itself and recover the costs. A team led by Mayor V.K. Minimol inspected the site on Thursday after the 24-hour notice served on Wednesday (July 8, 2026) for the demolition of the building was not complied with.

“Once strengthening works are completed, the building will be dismantled from the top in a piece-meal manner, as per the expert’s directives. The process may take seven to 10 days. There is barely any gap between the tilted structure and the one it leans upon. Strengthening began on Friday, and demolition, starting with the removal of the roof sheets, will commence on Saturday (July 11, 2026),” Ms. Minimol said.

Given the limitations in deploying heavy-duty machinery, much of the work will rely on manual labour. The contractor and workers engaged by the owner will carry out the task at his expense. “If the owner reneges on his commitment, the Corporation will impose a fine on the building and prohibit any future construction on the site. Our engineering team will monitor the entire operation,” Ms. Minimol added.