A Mumbai builder gets a stop-work notice as residents protest a shrinking Walkeshwar road

The Malabar Hill area of Mumbai is currently facing significant tensions due to ongoing construction work along Walkeshwar Road. Local residents have raised concerns about the narrowing of the road, prompting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to issue a stop-work notice to the involved architect and developer.

Details of the Stop-Work Notice

On April 26, the BMC's D ward office flagged unauthorized construction activities at a plot along Walkeshwar Road. The notice was directed at architect Preeti Kashyap Barai and developer Dilip Chunilal Chandan, citing that the commencement certificate for the construction had not been properly endorsed according to the last amended plans. The BMC has mandated that all work must cease until further orders are issued by the building proposal department, which is currently investigating the reduction in the road's width.

Concerns Raised by Residents

Local residents, led by architect Jashwant Mehta, have been vocal about their concerns regarding the shrinking width of Walkeshwar Road. Originally prescribed to be 27.5 meters wide, the road has reportedly narrowed to between 13 to 16 meters over time. Residents have pointed out that this reduction has made the road less functional, particularly due to the absence of proper footpaths. Mehta highlighted the community's long-standing efforts to restore the road to its original width, efforts that have seen little action from the municipal corporation for over five decades.

Implications of the Stop-Work Notice

The BMC's stop-work notice serves as a crucial step in addressing the residents' concerns. The notice requires the architect and developer to submit the necessary permissions for the construction within 24 hours. Failure to comply may result in the removal of construction materials and machinery, with police intervention to ensure adherence to the order. This situation underscores the importance of regulatory compliance in construction projects, particularly in areas where local infrastructure and community needs are at stake.

Market Context in Walkeshwar

In the backdrop of these developments, Walkeshwar currently has 107 active sale listings, with a median asking rate of about ₹72,000 per sq ft carpet. This data reflects the ongoing interest in the area, despite the tensions surrounding construction and road width issues. Buyers and investors should consider these factors when evaluating property in Walkeshwar, as local infrastructure developments can significantly impact property values and living conditions.

Practical Takeaway

For potential homebuyers, tenants, and investors in the Malabar Hill area, it is essential to stay informed about local developments and regulatory actions like the BMC's stop-work notice. Understanding the implications of road width and infrastructure issues can help in making informed decisions regarding property investments in Walkeshwar.