Tranquebar Flood Tragedy: Who’s to Blame for the House Collapse?

Following the publication of a letter from the constructor EDCC, warning the National Development Unit (NDU) under the auspices of Minister Bobby Hurreeram, of the risks associated with the project, new interpretations of the facts and contract clauses have emerged.

The controversy surrounding the collapse of houses in Tranquebar continued to unfold.

According to sources, a clause in the contract (11.1) that appeared to shift responsibility to the NDU is being misinterpreted.

The clause stating that “the risk of property injury or death or loss of or damage to property due to use or occupation of the site by the Works or for the purpose of the Works, which is the unavoidable result of the Works” fell on the NDU.

However, this does not imply that the constructor is absolved of their responsibility to implement adequate temporary works to protect the site and surrounding properties.

In fact, other clauses in the contract imposed clear obligations on the constructor to plan and execute works in a safe and professional manner.

The constructor is required to comply with conditions related to excavation and water protection.

The question raised: were the unwise excavations near the houses an “unavoidable result of the Works” as stated in the clause? Only ongoing investigations will be able to determine this and assign responsibility.

The controversy has raised questions about accountability and transparency in government projects.

The investigation will be crucial in shedding light on the events leading up to the collapse and determining who was ultimately responsible.

In light of these developments, it is clear that both parties are engaged in a game of mutual accusation, with neither willing to take full responsibility for their actions.

As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how the NDU will respond to these allegations and what steps will be taken to ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again.

Source: l’Express