Mumbai’s Breach Candy residents are raising alarms over a neglected construction site that has transformed into a hazardous mosquito breeding ground, exacerbated by the onset of the monsoon.
The site, initially excavated for a two-level underground parking facility behind Tata Garden as part of the Coastal Road project, has remained an open pit since the project’s suspension in October 2024 due to local opposition. Despite assurances from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to address the issue, the trench continues to collect stagnant water, posing significant health risks to the community. Residents have voiced concerns over the increasing mosquito population, with many reporting a rise in mosquito-borne illnesses. The situation has been exacerbated by recent heavy rains, leading to flooding in areas not previously prone to such issues, including Breach Candy.
The BMC’s decision to reduce the number of dewatering pumps from 482 to 417, citing improvements in stormwater infrastructure, has been criticized as ineffective, particularly in flood-prone areas. In response to the growing public outcry, the BMC has stated plans to fill the pit using reclamation material. However, work has yet to commence, leaving residents skeptical of the municipality’s commitment to resolving the issue. The situation at Breach Candy underscores the need for sustainable urban planning and infrastructure development. As Mumbai continues to expand, it is imperative that projects are executed with consideration for environmental impact and community well-being.
The BMC must prioritize the completion of abandoned projects and ensure that future developments do not compromise public health or safety.
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