19 hrs ago
Mumbai Slum Crackdown Draws Cross-Party Opposition Over Consultation
Mumbai’s civic body wants to take action against unauthorised slum buildings taller than 14 feet.
The planned campaign could affect 39,111 structures.
It is expected to run from October 1 through December 31.
Corporators from several political parties said residents should be consulted first.
Some representatives asked for taller construction limits, including up to 24 feet.
Others wanted a clear rulebook and checks before more construction is allowed.
Officials were also questioned about why unauthorised buildings grew so much.
The committee chairman asked the civic body to explain its plan before acting.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation plans action against unauthorised slum structures exceeding 14 feet.
Corporators across party lines demanded consultation and asked that the proposed action be withdrawn or reviewed.
The civic body is expected to intensify demolition efforts against 39,111 structures from October 1 to December 31.
Some representatives sought permission for construction up to 24 feet, while others called for clear height rules and verification.
Standing Committee Chairman Prabhakar Shinde directed officials to explain the proposal before further action.
- Who
- The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and Mumbai corporators, including representatives from several political parties.
- What
- A proposed crackdown on unauthorised slum structures exceeding 14 feet, with corporators demanding consultation and review.
- Where
- Mumbai and its suburbs, including slum and gaothan areas.
- When
- The discussion took place on September 23, 2026; the demolition drive is scheduled from October 1 to December 31.
- Why
- The civic body cites unauthorised construction, while corporators seek resident consultation, rehabilitation planning, and clearer construction rules before enforcement.
Civic Enforcement
Consultation and Review
Whether action should proceed
Civic Enforcement
The civic administration plans action against unauthorised structures exceeding 14 feet, and Prabhakar Shinde said unchecked slum construction cannot continue.
Consultation and Review
Corporators across party lines asked that the proposal be withdrawn, reviewed, or discussed with group leaders before enforcement.
Permitted construction height
Civic Enforcement
Some representatives argued that construction rules should be clearly defined, noting that structures in some areas already exceed 24 feet.
Consultation and Review
Jamir Kureshi demanded that slum construction be permitted up to 24 feet, while other corporators sought an approach tailored to local areas.
Responsibility and safeguards
Civic Enforcement
BJP group leader Ganesh Khankar questioned the BMC’s failure to prevent the growth of unauthorised construction; Amey Ghole called for verification before allowing further construction.
Consultation and Review
Ashraf Azmi demanded surveys and a rehabilitation scheme, while other corporators emphasised the concerns of residents facing possible demolition.
Key facts
- Civic authority
- Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
- Height threshold
- Unauthorised structures exceeding 14 feet
- Structures identified
- 39,111 structures across Mumbai and its suburbs
- Planned action period
- October 1 to December 31
- Committee action
- Standing Committee Chairman Prabhakar Shinde sought an explanation from the civic administration
- Alternative height demand
- AIMIM corporator Jamir Kureshi demanded that slum construction be permitted up to 24 feet
- Requested measures
- Corporators called for consultation, surveys, rehabilitation, and clear construction rules
Quotes
Prabhakar Shinde
BMC Standing Committee chairman
“Who will take responsibility for the rampant rise in unauthorised construction? Had civic officials acted in time, these slums would not have expanded”
freepressjournal.in
“We have come here with the blessings of voters, and if they are facing difficulties, we will not tolerate it”
freepressjournal.in
Sources
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