Tue May 20 14:44:41 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Kozhikode Corporation Launches Inquiry into Mofussil Bus Stand Fire**
**Kozhikode, May 20, 2025:** The Kozhikode Corporation has formed an internal inquiry committee to investigate the cause of a fire that engulfed the mofussil bus stand building on Sunday. Mayor Beena Philip announced the formation of the committee, composed of key Corporation officials, at a press conference on Tuesday.
The committee will examine potential negligence on the part of the building’s licensee, alleged encroachment hindering firefighters, and overall fire safety preparedness within Corporation-owned buildings. A report on the findings and recommendations for immediate public safety measures is expected within a week.
Deputy Mayor C.P. Musafar Ahamed explained that the building, constructed in 1987, initially adhered to safety regulations. However, he emphasized the licensees’ responsibility to implement additional safety measures based on their business operations, specifically highlighting the need for precautions in areas used as textile godowns.
Mayor Philip acknowledged that the upper floor, originally intended as a night shelter, was later rented to the licensee as storage space. She also admitted the Corporation’s failure to conduct a promised fire audit after a recent incident on S.M. Street and pledged to prioritize the installation of fire hydrants in Corporation-owned and high-traffic buildings.
The Deputy Mayor conceded that routine building inspections are infrequent, typically occurring only upon complaint. He cited the impracticality of regularly inspecting over two lakh buildings in the city.
The investigation aims to identify lapses and implement necessary measures to prevent future incidents and ensure public safety in Kozhikode.
First Piper 