Local bodies in Kozhikode told to audit buildings for accessibility violations

Local self-government institutions in Kozhikode district have been directed to identify commercial and residential buildings that do not provide adequate accessibility facilities for persons with disabilities and take appropriate action against violations.

Directions have been issued to secretaries of all local self-government institutions to conduct post-occupancy audits of buildings in the wake of rising complaints from various rights activists. Though building plans are approved only after provision is made for facilities such as ramps, barrier-free access, accessible toilets, lifts, and designated parking spaces, there have been instances of such facilities either not being provided after construction or being removed later for other uses.