Bombay High Court Orders Immediate Demolition of Hazardous Vasco Building
The Bombay High Court has taken decisive action in a critical public safety case, quashing and setting aside an order from the secretary of urban development dated April 23, 2025. This order had previously overturned a demolition directive issued by the chief officer of the Mormugao Municipal Council for a dangerously dilapidated structure located in the heart of Vasco.
Court Directs Immediate Evacuation and Demolition
Justice Valmiki Menezes delivered a firm judgment, directing the chief officer to ensure that all occupants vacate the one-storey Shridhar Building without delay. The court mandated that the building be cordoned off and demolished within eight weeks, emphasizing that its continued existence poses an imminent threat to human life.
The structure houses over twenty commercial establishments, making the evacuation process particularly urgent. The high court specifically rejected pleas from business operators seeking a six-week extension to vacate the premises, citing the gravity of the situation.
Engineering Report Highlights Extreme Danger
In its ruling, the court referenced a detailed technical assessment from the Goa Engineering College dated January 9, 2026. This report provided compelling evidence that the building is in a state of critical disrepair, with a high likelihood of sudden structural failure.
The engineering experts unequivocally stated that the building's collapse would create an extensive threat to life, endangering not only the occupants but also pedestrians in the surrounding vicinity. Based on this professional assessment, the court determined that no additional time could be granted for evacuation.
Legal Validation of Original Demolition Order
The Bombay High Court found no valid justification for the urban development secretary's interference with the original demolition order issued by the Mormugao Municipal Council's chief officer on January 18, 2024. The court held that this initial directive fully satisfied all requirements under Section 190 of the relevant legislation.
Furthermore, the judicial bench observed that the Goa Engineering College's comprehensive report provided clear, unambiguous recommendations supporting the demolition. This technical validation reinforced the court's conclusion that immediate action is necessary to prevent potential tragedy.
The ruling underscores the judiciary's commitment to prioritizing public safety over administrative delays, particularly when expert assessments indicate imminent danger. The eight-week demolition timeline represents a balanced approach between urgent action and practical implementation requirements.
