MHADA Identifies 82 Highly Dangerous Buildings in Mumbai, Launches Evacuation Drive Ahead of Monsoon

Mumbai: With the monsoon season fast approaching, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has identified 82 cessed buildings in Mumbai's island city as highly dangerous and initiated the process of evacuating residents and occupants from these structures to prevent potential tragedies during heavy rainfall.

The assessment was carried out through MHADA's annual pre-monsoon structural survey conducted by the Mumbai Building Repairs and Reconstruction Board. The exercise is aimed at identifying buildings that pose a serious risk to life and property during the rainy season, when ageing structures become increasingly vulnerable to collapse.

The large-scale safety initiative highlights MHADA's continued commitment to proactive risk management, with Vice President and CEO IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal placing special emphasis on early intervention, resident safety and timely rehabilitation before the onset of the monsoon.

Annual Survey Flags 82 Unsafe Structures

According to MHADA, the list includes 82 buildings classified as highly dangerous, of which 43 were also declared unsafe during last year's survey. The remaining structures were added following fresh inspections conducted this year.

Officials said these buildings have deteriorated significantly over time and are no longer considered safe for occupation without major repairs or redevelopment.

Mumbai's island city contains a large concentration of ageing cessed buildings, many of which require urgent structural attention. Annual surveys are conducted to identify buildings that may pose a threat during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.

More Than 2,700 Occupants Affected

The 82 identified buildings currently house 2,736 occupants, including 2,256 residential tenants and residents and 480 non-residential occupants.

MHADA has begun serving evacuation notices to residents and tenants residing in these buildings. So far, notices have been issued to 176 residential occupants, directing them to vacate the premises immediately.

Officials said the evacuation process is being carried out in phases to ensure a smooth and safe relocation of all affected occupants.

Transit Accommodation Arrangements in Progress

As part of the relocation drive, 29 residents have already shifted to MHADA-operated transit camps, while 36 occupants have arranged alternative accommodation on their own.

The authority estimates that approximately 2,102 occupants may require accommodation in transit camps. Necessary arrangements are currently being made to ensure adequate housing facilities are available for affected families.

Officials stated that the process of issuing notices to the remaining occupants is ongoing and will continue until all high-risk buildings are vacated.

Residents Urged to Prioritise Safety

MHADA has appealed to residents living in the identified structures to cooperate with officials and comply with evacuation notices issued by the Board.

The authority warned that continued occupation of structurally weak buildings significantly increases the risk of accidents, injuries and loss of life during the monsoon season.

Residents have also been advised to immediately report signs of structural distress such as cracks, leaning walls, falling plaster, water seepage or any other indications of building instability.

Emergency Helplines Activated

To assist residents and respond quickly to emergencies, MHADA has activated its control room and emergency response system for the monsoon season.

Citizens can contact the Mumbai Building Repairs and Reconstruction Board's control room on 23536945, 23517423 or mobile number 9321637699 to report dangerous conditions or structural emergencies.

Residents may also contact the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's emergency control room for immediate assistance.

As Mumbai prepares for the monsoon, MHADA's ongoing evacuation and rehabilitation drive is expected to play a critical role in safeguarding thousands of residents living in ageing buildings and reducing the risk of monsoon-related structural disasters.