KOCHI The work on resolving design flaws at the open-air auditorium on the main campus of Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) has reached its final stage after the facility was shut down following the tragic stampede that resulted in the death of four persons, including three students, ahead of a music nite on November 25, 2023.
“Around 90% of the work has been completed, and we hope to make the auditorium available for various programmes after getting the required clearance from the police department and the technical committee appointed by the varsity to examine the structural defects,” said Prof. Arun A.U., Registrar.
According to the revised plan, the road between the triangular park and the auditorium will be out of bounds for vehicular movement. The footpath was demolished, and the unscientific level difference in the front yard was removed to restrict the crowd inside and avoid possibility of road accidents resulting from the public gathering outside. A wall would be set up close to the entrance area as part of crowd control measures, the varsity authorities said.
The technical committee has suggested that the rise and tread of the step in the middle of the auditorium shall be modified to 15 cm and 40 cm respectively. Handrails have to be provided on either side as well as in the middle. The existing steps in the side entrances have to be replaced with ramps of same width and standard slope. These ramps shall extend up to the stage so as to make the auditorium disabled friendly.
The branches of trees leaning over the auditorium will be removed to avoid accidents, if any, during the monsoon period. The damaged ceiling panels will be repaired. The committee has also recommended more radial exhausts to be provided over the roof to ensure faster air exchange.
