Mumbai: 

This year’s figures mark a sharp decline compared to recent trends. In 2023, a staggering 387 buildings were deemed unfit for habitation, while in 2024 that number dropped to 188. Officials attribute this positive change to the increased demolition and evacuation of ageing structures, many over three decades old, signalling progress in Mumbai’s battle against unsafe housing.

As the monsoon season looms over Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has flagged 134 buildings across the city as dilapidated this year, a significant drop from previous years, but still a cause for concern. Of these, 57 have been successfully vacated, yet 77 remain occupied despite being officially declared unsafe.

Evacuation challenges & path forward for unsafe structures

In a bid to safeguard residents during the often devastating monsoon rains, the BMC classifies these buildings under the C1 category, marking them as unfit for living. Residents are issued notices demanding immediate evacuation and the demolition of these structures within 15 days of the declaration. However, many continue to live in these risky homes, citing a lack of alternative accommodation and insufficient safeguards.

Complicating matters further, some occupants have challenged the C1 classification, requesting fresh inspections by BMC-approved structural auditors.

High-risk zones: Mumbai wards with most unsafe buildings

Certain parts of the city continue to emerge as hotspots for these hazardous buildings. The highest numbers are found in the H/West ward, covering Bandra and Khar West, and the P/South ward in Goregaon, each reporting 15 unsafe structures. Close behind are the N ward, which includes Ghatkopar, and the K/E ward in Andheri East, with 11 such buildings each. The K/West ward (Andheri West) has 10, while the R/South ward, covering Kandivali West, has eight.

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