K.K. SASIDHARAN, J.

Introductory

1. It is said that the fire in Sri Meenakshi Temple on Friday, the 2 February 2018 was a disaster waiting to happen for a long time. The unfortunate incident at the heritage building should be taken as a wake up call for undertaking a mass drive against illegal buildings, especially the multi-storeyed buildings constructed in violation of the Building Regulations as it is a constant threat to the safety and security of the people of Madurai. In case, the Fire Officers, Local Planning Authority, District Administration, Municipal Corporation and Police are insensitive to the issue regarding mushroom growth of illegal buildings and the safety aspects and inspite of a slew of fire accidents, safety audits are not conducted regularly, there is every possibility of another Uphaar Tragedy at the Temple City of Madurai.

2. The magnitude of the violation of building regulations and non adherence to the safety protocol at Vishaal De Mal, Madurai is evident from the following inspection report submitted by the District Collector and the Local Pla