Three Workers Killed as Slab Collapses in Kozhikode Building

February 23, 2026

At least three workers were killed and several others injured after a concrete slab collapsed in Valiyangadi, Kozhikode in Kerala on Monday, February 23, 2026. The accident occurred when a slab from an old Kozhikode Corporation–owned building suddenly gave way, trapping workers who were engaged in loading activities nearby. Emergency responders rushed the victims to hospital, but three of them succumbed to their injuries.

Police and local officials have launched an investigation into the collapse amid rising concerns over the structural safety of the ageing building, which previously housed the passport office and now functions as a warehouse and commercial space.

How the Incident Unfolded

The slab detached from the structure believed to be around 70 years old and crashed onto the workers just after midday, when they were taking a break after unloading goods at a shop located beneath the overhanging portion of the building. Locals immediately alerted the fire brigade and rescue teams, who mobilized cutting equipment to free those trapped under the heavy debris.

Police identified the deceased as Jabbar, Ashraf and Basheer, all of whom were reportedly engaged in loading and manual work at the site. Two other workers were injured in the incident, with at least one in serious condition when shifted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital for further treatment.

Locals rushed some of the injured to the Kozhikode Beach Hospital, while others were transferred to larger medical facilities for advanced care.

Building’s Condition and Allegations of Negligence

The terrifying collapse has reignited scrutiny over the decades-old building’s condition, which residents and workers had long complained about. According to eyewitness accounts, cracks and visible signs of wear had been noticed in the structure earlier, prompting traders in the busy market area to demand action and repairs.

Despite these warnings, there are now allegations that the Kozhikode Corporation did not take sufficient steps to address the building’s frailty — including failing to enforce a vacation order or restrict access after issuing notices recommending demolition. Local residents questioned why a dilapidated structure was still being used for commercial activities without adequate safety precautions, such as warning signs or barricades.

The mayor of Kozhikode has since pledged that no one will be allowed to enter the building again and has initiated an inquiry into the incident. Investigations are focusing on potential lapses in building maintenance, inspection and enforcement of safety regulations by municipal authorities.

Shock and Response from Community and Workers

News of the tragic collapse sent shockwaves through Valiyangadi a bustling heart of Kozhikode known for its traditional markets and commercial activity. Workers’ unions and labour groups soon protested against what they described as official “carelessness” that cost the lives of three men merely performing their jobs.

A strike was announced by local workers in response to the disaster, while clashes briefly erupted between BJP activists and police when the political cadre marched to the Kozhikode Corporation office demanding accountability. BJP councillors accused the municipal body of negligence and questioned how a building tagged for demolition was still certified as fit for use.

The Congress unit in Kozhikode also held the Corporation responsible for the tragedy and demanded a judicial probe to uncover any systemic failures that may have contributed to the collapse.

Safety Concerns and Future Action

The incident has underscored broader concerns about structural safety in ageing urban buildings across Kerala. Authorities are expected to review safety audits and enforcement mechanisms for old structures, especially in high-density commercial zones such as Valiyangadi.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the victims’ families and taking measures to prevent similar tragedies, with authorities pledging stricter monitoring and enforcement of building safety standards across Kozhikode.