December 19, 2025: More than 700 residents living in 19 Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) buildings across South and Central Mumbai have been asked to vacate their homes after the structures were declared highly dangerous. With redevelopment stalled due to legal complications and the absence of a clear rehabilitation plan, families now face the dual burden of safety risks and housing uncertainty.
The situation is part of a larger crisis involving 68 LIC-owned buildings in these parts of Mumbai that have been officially classified as dilapidated. Several recent incidents of collapsing roofs and falling building portions have resulted in injuries, intensifying fears among occupants. Many of these structures are over 90 years old and are widely considered beyond repair.
In response to the growing risk, the Mumbai Building Repair and Reconstruction Board of MHADA issued vacate notices, followed by similar notices from LIC, directing residents of the most dangerous buildings to move out immediately. As reported by Loksatta, MHADA has offered temporary accommodation at its transit camps. However, residents remain sceptical, citing the lack of clarity on redevelopment timelines and permanent rehabilitation.
The 68 buildings together comprise 1,764 units, including 815 residential and 949 non-residential units. Since repair cess is collected from these properties, their maintenance falls under MHADA’s Repair Board. Both officials and residents agree that redevelopment is the only viable solution, but progress has been hampered by legal hurdles surrounding MHADA’s Section 79A rehabilitation process.
Fear has become a daily reality for families still occupying these ageing structures, particularly with the monsoon approaching. Falling debris and partial collapses have heightened anxiety among residents.
Mukesh Shah Pendse, Joint Secretary of the LIC Tenant and Occupants Welfare Association, said that notices have been served to over 700 flat owners across 19 buildings. He added that residents are demanding immediate redevelopment and payment of rent during the relocation period.
While MHADA has stated that the redevelopment process is sub judice, LIC has remained silent on redevelopment plans and rental compensation. With no clear roadmap in sight, residents continue to wait, caught between vacating unsafe homes and an uncertain future.
