August 30, 2025: As Virar mourns the loss of 17 lives in the Ramabai Apartment building collapse, attention has shifted from rescue operations to rehabilitation and long-term reforms. Families performed the last rites of their loved ones, even as officials announced support measures.
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik assured immediate housing relief, directing MHADA to provide 60 temporary homes in Bolinj for the affected families. “These families will be shifted into their temporary accommodation at the earliest,” officials confirmed. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also promised full state support, announcing plans for Cluster Development and Slum Rehabilitation schemes in Vasai-Virar to tackle unsafe, unauthorised constructions.
The collapse, which occurred suddenly on Tuesday night without warning signs, claimed entire families. Among the victims were Omkar Jovil (25), his wife Arohi (24), and their one-year-old daughter Uttkarsha. Others include Sachin and Supriya Nivadkar and their son Arnav (11). Nine people were rescued alive, four of whom remain hospitalised. “All four currently hospitalised patients are stable… counselling is also being provided, especially to the patient who lost their entire family,” said Dr. Bhakti Chaudhary, Chief Medical Officer, VVMC.
Local representatives have provided financial assistance, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis earlier announced ₹5 lakh for each bereaved family. Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik assured long-term rehabilitation support, with a decision expected after a district-level report.
Accountability efforts have also begun, with builder Nittal Gopinath Sane arrested for culpable homicide and violations of the MRTP Act. VVMC cited unauthorised construction and poor materials as causes. But anger among residents persists. “If the builder was issued six notices by VVMC, why wasn’t action taken earlier?” questioned one resident.
Calling for stricter laws, Sarnaik declared, “There should not be a single new illegal wall in Vasai-Virar from now on.”
Source: The Free Press Journal
