Mumbai’s civic administration has identified 164 unrecognised educational institutions operating across the city, bringing issues of regulatory compliance, student safety, and equal access to schooling into sharp focus ahead of the upcoming academic session. The findings are especially significant in densely populated and underserved areas, where informal schools often emerge to fill gaps left by limited public education infrastructure.
Data from the latest survey shows a clear geographic concentration, with the highest number of such institutions located in the Govandi–Mankhurd belt. This eastern stretch accounts for more than one-third of the total cases, far surpassing clusters in localities like Malad–Malvani and Kandivali. Urban planners note that this trend reflects deeper structural challenges, where rapid population growth and informal housing developments outpace the availability of authorised schooling facilities.
Officials stated that these schools continue to function without obtaining the required approvals from either state authorities or the municipal system. Under national education regulations, institutions must meet essential standards related to infrastructure, staffing, and safety before enrolling students. The continued existence of such schools highlights both enforcement gaps and the persistent demand for low-cost, accessible education in high-density neighbourhoods.
The civic education department has begun efforts to integrate some of these institutions into the formal system, with proposals for regularisation submitted to the state government. However, approvals are still pending. Meanwhile, stricter enforcement has led to the shutdown of several schools over the past two academic years, indicating a gradual tightening of oversight.
Experts argue that enforcement alone may not be sufficient. In areas where municipal schools are overcrowded or located far from residential pockets, families often rely on informal providers despite the risks. Authorities have advised parents to verify school credentials before admission, while policy observers stress the need for long-term investment in accessible, affordable education to ensure inclusive urban development.
Source: Urban Acres
