Mumbai Residents Fear Wall Collapse as Monsoon Looms
Residents of the Rajmala Premises Cooperative Society in Mumbai are voicing concerns over the potential collapse of a shared retaining wall due to ongoing construction at the adjacent Chitrakoot Bungalow. With the monsoon season approaching, fears of a collapse are growing, putting both lives and property at risk.
MumbaiMonsoonConstructionRetaining WallSafetyReal Estate MumbaiMay 31, 2025
The Rajmala building, a nine-storey structure dating back to the 1960s, is situated at the base of Malabar Hill and shares a rubble masonry retaining wall with the bungalow. Residents allege that recent excavation and construction work at the bungalow have partially damaged the top of this wall, leaving the lower sections exposed and vulnerable. They fear that heavy rains could lead to a collapse, endangering both life and property.
In a letter dated April 8 to the Public Works Department (PWD), society members highlighted the risks posed by the compromised wall. They noted that the wall’s thickness decreases as it ascends, making it susceptible to pressure from accumulated stormwater during monsoons. The residents have requested detailed plans and schedules from the PWD to address and mitigate these risks before the monsoon intensifies. One resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “Our concern is that in heavy rain, as expected during monsoon, the upper part of the remaining wall can collapse under the pressure of accumulated stormwater.”
Another resident highlighted the disturbances caused by the construction, mentioning that the noise from lifting large stones and debris has made it difficult for lower-floor residents to open their windows. The April complaint letter also pointed out that the hillock behind the building had remained untouched for over 60 years, and recent excavations have loosened the soil and uprooted trees, further destabilizing the area. In response, PWD officials have stated that they are constructing a 35-foot retaining wall which they claim will remain structurally sound. However, residents continue to demand greater transparency and a clear schedule for the repair work to safeguard their buildings. Attempts to reach the official’s team for comments were unsuccessful.
The situation underscores the need for careful urban planning and consideration of environmental impacts, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. As Mumbai braces for the monsoon, residents of Rajmala Premises hope for prompt and effective action to ensure their safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern of the residents of Rajmala Premises Cooperative Society?
The main concern of the residents is the potential collapse of a shared retaining wall due to ongoing construction at the adjacent Chitrakoot Bungalow, which could be exacerbated by heavy monsoon rains.
What has the Public Works Department (PWD) been asked to do?
The PWD has been requested to provide detailed plans and schedules to address and mitigate the risks posed by the compromised retaining wall before the monsoon intensifies.
How has the construction affected the residents' daily life?
The construction has caused disturbances such as noise from lifting large stones and debris, making it difficult for lower-floor residents to open their windows.
What is the PWD's response to the residents' concerns?
The PWD officials have stated that they are constructing a 35-foot retaining wall which they claim will remain structurally sound. However, residents continue to demand greater transparency and a clear schedule for the repair work.
Why is this situation particularly concerning in the context of Mumbai's monsoon season?
The situation is particularly concerning because the compromised retaining wall is susceptible to pressure from accumulated stormwater during monsoons, which could lead to a collapse, endangering both lives and property.
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