Mumbai's Orchid City Centre Mall Shut After SC Order

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has ordered the immediate closure of Orchid City Centre Mall in Mumbai Central, following a directive from the Supreme Court. The mall, located on Bellasis Road, has been prohibited from being used or occupied until all necessary repairs and safety clearances are completed.

The BMC's D Ward issued a formal notice on September 1, directing shop owners, occupants, and visitors to vacate the premises immediately. This action follows the Supreme Court's August 25 order in the case of Esa Usman Seliya & Ors v/s The MCGM & Ors.

According to the court's directions, the entire building cannot be used until structural repairs and safety requirements arising from a major fire in 2020 are completed. The premises must remain non-functional until the builder repairs the structure and the BMC is satisfied that every floor is safe for use.

The court has also directed that the mall can be reopened only after applicable statutory fire safety requirements are fulfilled and the competent municipal authorities grant explicit permission for re-entry and re-occupation. Officials from the BMC's Building Proposal department, Fire Brigade, and D Ward issued an eviction intimation to the developers, including M/s Neelkamal Realtors & Builders Pvt. Ltd., M/s DB Realty, and M/s Neelkamal City Shopping Mall India Ltd.

The notice applies to occupants of shops and units on the ground and first floors, directing them to vacate their premises immediately. The BMC has warned that failure to comply could result in forcible eviction, which would be carried out at the risk and cost of the owners and occupants.

The action is linked to a major fire that broke out at Orchid City Centre Mall on October 22, 2020. The blaze required a firefighting operation lasting around 56 hours and caused extensive damage to the building. The fire also brought to light the issue of unauthorised commercial units inside the mall.

Following the incident, the BMC demolished more than 700 allegedly unauthorised shops and units at the premises. The latest Supreme Court order has led to the closure of the mall, and the BMC is ensuring that the premises are vacated and repaired to meet safety standards.

The closure of the mall is a significant development, and the BMC's actions are aimed at ensuring the safety of occupants and visitors. The incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety regulations and the need for prompt action in case of emergencies.

The Supreme Court's order and the BMC's subsequent actions demonstrate the commitment to ensuring public safety and enforcing regulations. The closure of the mall will likely have an impact on the local businesses and residents, but it is essential to prioritize safety and comply with the court's directives.

In conclusion, the closure of Orchid City Centre Mall is a result of the Supreme Court's order and the BMC's efforts to ensure public safety. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety regulations and the need for prompt action in case of emergencies. The BMC's actions will help prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that public spaces are safe for everyone.