Based on the direction of the High Court, ‘Nakkeerar Thorana Vayil’ at Mattuthavani in Madurai was demolished on February 12.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has ordered a compensation of ₹17 lakh to be paid to the family of earthmover operator K. Nagalingam, who was killed when a major portion of the entrance arch near MGR Bus Stand at Mattuthavani here fell on the vehicle during demolition on February 12.
The court was hearing the petition filed by N. Kathirvel of Kalligudi in Madurai district, father of Nagalingam. The petitioner, a daily wager, said his youngest son Nagalingam, 20, had studied till Class XII. Due to the financial situation of the family, Nagalingam could not take up higher studies and worked as an earthmover operator.
In 2024, the High Court had directed the authorities to remove ‘Nakkeerar Thorana Vayil’ near MGR Bus Stand and ‘Periyar Thorana Vayil’ at K.K. Nagar as they were causing hindrance to traffic, he said.
Pursuant to the court direction, Madurai Corporation commenced the work for the demolition of ‘Nakkeerar Thorana Vayil’ at Mattuthavani on February 12. The work was entrusted to contractor S. Nallathambi, proprietor of Sri Kalalagar Transport and Demolition, he said.
During the demolition, a major portion of the entrance arch fell on the earthmover. Nagalingam was trapped under the debris and subsequently died, the petitioner said.
K. Pudur police registered a case. The accident was caused due to the negligence of the authorities who did not follow any safety measures and codes to carry out the demolition, he said.
The petitioner said the State had a vicarious liability to pay a compensation for the negligence of its authorities who had not followed any safety measures and demolition codes that resulted in the tragic death of his son.
Justice S. Srimathy observed that the State, Madurai Corporation and the contractor were liable to pay compensation. The court directed Madurai Corporation and the contractor to pay a compensation of ₹7 lakh each to the family of Nagalingam. It also directed the District Collector to pay a compensation of ₹3 lakh from any available fund/scheme.
The court disposed of the petition and posted the matter for reporting compliance to August 29.
Published – July 10, 2025 09:16 pm IST
