527 Buildings Declared Unsafe, Mandatory Audits for 30+ Years Structures

In a proactive step towards ensuring structural safety, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has declared 527 buildings as dilapidated for the year 2024-25. Following a detailed survey, the civic body has mandated that all structures over 30 years old must undergo a structural audit by March 31, 2025, to ascertain their stability and safety.

The structural audit requirement applies to buildings calculated from their first occupation or issuance of an occupancy certificate. Audits must be conducted by engineers registered with the NMMC, and reports must be submitted to the respective ward office or Town Planning department. Non-compliance will invite stringent penalties under Section 3948A of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, including fines of ₹25,000 or an amount equivalent to the annual property tax of the property, whichever is higher. The NMMC’s comprehensive survey was carried out under Section 264 of the MMCA, covering multiple subsections. The findings highlighted the urgency of this directive, particularly given the rapid urbanisation of Navi Mumbai and the aging infrastructure. The civic body has also addressed concerns of potential redevelopment fraud.

It is now mandatory for buildings constructed less than 30 years ago, but earmarked for redevelopment, to have their structural audits conducted through reputed institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). This decision was prompted by past instances where audits were allegedly manipulated to facilitate redevelopment, compromising safety and bypassing regulations. “The move aims to maintain transparency and ensure that redevelopment is carried out only where necessary,” explained an NMMC official. The NMMC’s firm stance underscores the importance of public safety and integrity in urban planning. As Navi Mumbai grows, these audits will play a critical role in safeguarding residents and preserving the city’s architectural fabric.