The Hidden Development Boom in Slum Skyscrapers of Mumbai

Mumbai, May 4: Across pockets of Govandi, Kurla and Bandra East, the age-old ground-plus-one shanty is being quietly replaced by 'slum skyscrapers' soaring five to seven storeys high, defying the mandatory 14-foot height restriction.

Enforcement Challenges

Civic activist Zoru Bathena said despite repeated complaints, BMC action remains ineffective. "The BMC took action and work stopped for a few days, but later the floors rose anyway."

Infrastructure Strain

A former town planner warned: "This is an immense strain on drinking water and sewage systems. BMC calculates water supply based on five people per family, but with five-storey structures, actual density far exceeds estimates."

Official Response

Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar said slums are being mapped and action will be taken.

Civic activist Nikhil Desai added: "We are already facing water shortages. How will these multi-storey slums get sufficient supply?"

SRA Failure

Godrey Pimenta said SRA has failed its objectives. "Beneficiaries sell rehab flats within the no-sale period and return to slums. Vertical expansion strains water, sanitation and garbage systems."