Mumbai will spend INR 57 crore to prevent landslides in 261 locations across its suburbs. The Mumbai Suburban District Collectorate approved the funds after a meeting of the District Planning and Development Committee. The meeting was led by Mumbai suburban guardian minister Ashish Shelar.
The Geological Survey of India identifies landslide-prone areas every year. This year, it has listed 299 sites in Mumbai. Out of these, 261 are in suburban areas. The remaining 38 are in the island city. The government will consult IIT-Bombay for guidance.
Landslides mainly occur during monsoon season. Heavy rain loosens rocks and soil, leading to collapses. Slum settlements are also located in such areas, which increase risks for residents. In the past, landslides have caused severe damage and loss of life. The worst incidents occurred in 2000 and 2005 in Ghatkopar East and Andheri East. Nearly 70 people lost their lives.
Several areas in Mumbai are vulnerable to landslides. These include Asalpha, Chandivali, Gilbert Hill, Chembur (Lal Dongar), Saki Naka, Bhandup West, Mulund West, Ghatkopar West, Anushakti Nagar, Kurla, and hilly regions near Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
In Goregaon, authorities used netting instead of retaining walls to prevent landslides. Gilbert Hill in Andheri, a unique basalt rock formation, is now covered in netting.
In addition to landslide prevention, other projects were approved for Mumbai’s suburban areas. The government has allocated INR 943 crore for the 2025-26 period. INR 30 crore will be spent on tourism development. Police stations and housing colonies will be upgraded. Furthermore, the government plans to open more Citizen Facilitation Centres, known as SETUs, to help people access services like permits, affidavits, and certificates.
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