Crackdown On 189 Illegal Hotels And Lodges In Mumbai’s L Ward

Government suspends officials, promises report within 8 days after city fire tragedy

In a sweeping action, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken punitive steps against 189 unauthorized commercial establishments — including 108 illegal hotels and 81 unlicensed lodges — operating in Kurla (West), LBS Road, and Sakinaka areas under the L Ward. The details were disclosed by Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal during a session in the Maharashtra Legislative Council on July 2.

The action followed a calling attention motion moved by MLC Rajhans Singh, with senior members including Pravin Darekar, Bhai Jagtap, and Leader of Opposition Ambadas Danve participating in the discussion.

Minister Misal informed the House that water and sewage connections to these establishments were disconnected to prevent them from resuming illegal operations. However, 73 of the affected property owners have obtained legal stay orders, temporarily halting enforcement in those cases.

The minister revealed that disciplinary action has already been taken against two sanitation inspectors, while a junior engineer and a site supervisor (mukadam) have been suspended for negligence. She added that the BMC has been instructed to initiate further action against any other officials found responsible for permitting unauthorized constructions.

The crackdown follows a recent fire incident at Hotel City Kinara, which resulted in fatalities. Minister Misal confirmed that, as per court directives, the families of the deceased will receive compensation of ₹50 lakh each, recoverable from the hotel owner. A criminal case has been registered against the proprietor.

She also assured that a detailed status report on unauthorized construction enforcement will be submitted to the House within eight days.