Mumbai University students protested at the Kalina campus on Friday over alleged failures in basic facilities at the Knowledge Resource Centre Library, including unclean washrooms, a non-functional air conditioner, poor ventilation and early closing hours.
According to the students, the library was opened only a few years ago but several amenities promised at the outset are no longer functioning. They also alleged that the drinking water available at the facility was unclean.
The complaints concern the daily usability of a key academic space for students, particularly those pursuing master’s and research programmes. Students questioned why the library closes at 10 pm, saying the operating hours do not accommodate those who require extended access for academic work.
“The hours are not suitable for master’s and research students who require more time for academics,” a student told Mid-Day.
Another student, speaking on condition of anonymity, said basic services should not require repeated demands from those using the facility. “We should not have to fight for basic facilities. High-speed WiFi, ventilation and clean washrooms are necessities for students who have moved to pursue their higher education,” the student said, adding that they hoped the university would respond quickly.
The complaints point to an operational gap that can emerge after a public or institutional facility is opened: the condition of the building depends not only on its original construction but also on regular maintenance, service contracts and administrative monitoring. In a library, failures involving ventilation, sanitation, drinking water and access hours directly affect how long and safely students can use the space.
Mumbai University has launched a student dialogue initiative to address academic and administrative concerns. The university said the initiative is intended to resolve student issues quickly and transparently, with feedback forming part of the process. The administration’s response to the specific complaints about the Kalina library was not detailed in the report.
