Raja Vijayaraghavan V, J.

This matter pertains to the grant of approval o f the estimate and a ward of contract for the work of providing a roof (truss roof) over the existing Sadyalayam in Navayikulam Devaswom under the Varkala Group.

2. It appears that the Structural Consultancy Wing of the Civil Engineering Department of M/s TKM Engineering College, Kollam, conducted an inspection of the building. The team has reported that the structure poses serious safety hazards and requires immediate rehabilitation. It has further recommended that major rehabilitation works to the columns, beams and slabs are necessary in order to restore structural safety before the building can be put to any further use. Based on the above findings, it has been concluded that, unless steps are taken to improve the structural stability of the building and appropriate strengthening measures are implemented, the proposed roofing work cannot be proceeded with.

3. The Audit Wing has also taken note of the aforesaid structural assessment report and has raised objections to the proposal for construction of the roof. The Audit has specifically reported that proceeding with the work on the existing Sadyalayam withou