Mumbai: MHADA flags 95 city buildings as 'dangerously unfit'

MHADA’s evacuation notice pasted on the premises of Narayan Ashram Building No 6. in Lalbaug. Pic/Shadab Khan

As the city braces for the monsoon, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has flagged 95 buildings as dangerously unfit for habitation and in need of redevelopment. MHADA CEO Sanjeev Jaiswal told mid-day the authority's action plan to relocate residents from crumbling structures.

In an exclusive conversation with mid-day, Sanjeev Jaiswal, IAS, vice president and chief executive officer, MHADA, gives insights on dilapidated buildings ahead of the monsoon season.

Sanjeev Jaiswal, vice-president and CEO, MHADA

What is the status of pre-monsoon inspections?
MHADA has begun its pre-monsoon inspection survey. As of May 5, around 73 per cent of inspections are complete. The remaining surveys are being prioritised to ensure safety before the rains begin.

Of the 540 buildings with audit reports, how many need only repairs?
A total of 411 buildings need repairs.
C2-A category: Major structural repairs needed, but buildings are safe for occupancy.
C2-B category: Minor structural repairs are required; they are structurally sound.

How many buildings require redevelopment?
Ninety-five buildings fall under the C-1 category, meaning they are unsafe for habitation and require redevelopment.
MHADA is following a structured process under the amended Section 79a of the MHADA Act, with executive engineers issuing evacuation notices and timelines per the SOP.

An exterior view of Narayan Ashram Buildings No. 6 and 7 in Lalbaug, which have been declared dilapidated by MHADA. Pic/Shadab Khan

What is MHADA's rehabilitation strategy?
MHADA has appointed M/s Ernst & Young LLP (EY) to streamline the exit and rehabilitation process for residents affected by the redevelopment of 13,901 cessed buildings. EY assists residents in finding alternative accommodation or works out rent compensation.

How many proposals have been received under Section 79a?
Ninety-three redevelopment proposals have been received under Section 79a (1)(A),26 have been issued NOCs, and 67 are under scrutiny at various approval stages.

What about proposals under Section 79B?
Fifty-eight proposals have been received under Section 79a (1)(B), seven have been sent to the government for acquisition and 51 are under review.

How many buildings are currently being redeveloped by MHADA?
MHADA primarily issues NOCs (no-objection certificates) and does not directly undertake reconstruction. So far, NOCs have been granted to 3072 projects, covering around 5600 buildings. The redevelopment of the remaining buildings is pending due to procedural, legal, or various stakeholder-related hurdles.

Current status of buildings
Total no. of structures surveyed by MHADA: 555
Structural reports submitted: 540 buildings