August 1, 2025: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday carried out a demolition drive against unauthorised constructions at three establishments within the Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel. Simultaneously, the civic health department initiated seizure proceedings against two high-end eateries for regulatory breaches.
The action was led by the fire compliance cell of the G/South ward as part of an ongoing campaign to enforce fire safety norms and building regulations across the city’s commercial hubs.
Kamala Mills, a prominent commercial enclave, houses numerous corporate offices alongside more than 30 upscale dining venues. However, the area has gained notoriety over the years due to repeated fire safety lapses. In the past five years alone, the compound has witnessed at least three major fire incidents, raising significant concerns over safety compliance.
The most recent blaze, categorised as a level II fire, broke out in September 2024 at a 15-storey commercial tower within the compound, further intensifying calls for stricter oversight.
“Inspections will continue in the coming weeks. Establishments failing to comply with fire safety and structural regulations will face appropriate action,” said a senior BMC official from the fire compliance cell.
The health department, too, has turned its attention to eateries operating in the area, two of which are now facing seizure notices for violations reportedly related to hygiene and licensing irregularities.
The BMC’s current drive reflects the administration’s renewed focus on ensuring accountability and improving safety standards across the city’s dense commercial corridors. Officials have also hinted that further action may be taken against non-compliant structures in the coming days, particularly in areas with a history of safety violations.
Residents and patrons of Kamala Mills have welcomed the crackdown, urging the civic body to maintain routine checks to prevent future hazards.
Source: The Indian Exress
