more-in Kozhikode: A joint meeting of merchants and people’s representatives chaired by Mayor Thottathil Raveendran here on Saturday decided to streamline the existing security arrangements on S.M. Street, where a three-storey building was recently destroyed in a massive fire. Merchants’ organisation representatives were told to cooperate with the conduct of a security audit planned on the busy street and comply with suggestions on security. Besides, corporation officials were directed to act firm on noticing serious security violations and unlawful alteration or extension of commercial buildings in the area. Addressing the meeting, Labour Minister T.P. Ramakrishnan said the renovation of S.M. Street could be completed only with the cooperation of traders. “The government is ready to offer all support if traders cooperate with the renovation bid,” he added. Mayor Thottathil Raveendran said an inspection of the quality of wiring in various commercial establishments on the street would be conducted immediately as part of the security review. V.K.C. Mammad Koya, MLA, called upon the corporation authorities to take stringent action against unauthorised traders. Explaining his list of priorities, A. Pradeepkumar, MLA, said the unscientific construction of roofs of several shops posed a huge security threat on S.M. Street. “Also, traders should avoid all unwanted decorations and festoons, as they will easily double the impact of fire,” he added. Former Minister M.K. Muneer, District Collector U.V Jose, Corporation Secretary Mrunmayi Joshy, Divisional Fire Officer Arun Bhasker, and Deputy Collector B. Abdul Nasar were present.

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