Mumbai Faces Landslide Threat at 300 Vulnerable Sites

Mumbai: With the monsoon knocking on the city’s doors, a major safety concern has emerged across Mumbai. More than 300 landslide-prone locations remain without complete protective measures, exposing nearly 1 lakh residents living in high-risk areas to potential disaster.

According to municipal records, landslide mitigation projects were launched after extensive recommendations from geological experts. However, despite repeated warnings and several deadly incidents in recent years, a significant number of critical works remain unfinished. Out of 749 landslide prevention projects initiated since 2023, only 440 have been completed, while 329 projects are either pending or yet to begin.

The recommendations were originally made following a detailed study conducted by the Geological Survey of India in 2018, which identified vulnerable hill slopes and nearby human settlements across Mumbai. Every monsoon season, these locations face a heightened risk of landslides due to intense rainfall and unstable terrain.

Also Read | Pune Toxic Liquor Tragedy Claims 18 Lives

Data from the Disaster Management Department reveals that 107 landslides were reported in Mumbai between 2021 and 2025, resulting in 31 deaths and 25 injuries. Authorities have currently identified 249 landslide-prone locations, many of which are situated on hills and ridges ranging from 150 to 200 meters in height.

Several of these slopes consist of loose soil, exposed rock formations, or abandoned quarry zones where natural land structures have been significantly altered. The danger becomes even more severe during heavy rainfall, increasing the likelihood of rocks and debris crashing into nearby settlements.

A large number of these vulnerable areas are occupied by informal settlements, low-income families, and migrant workers. Government estimates suggest that nearly 1 lakh people continue to live in these high-risk zones, making timely completion of preventive measures a critical priority.

249 High-Risk Locations Under Watch

Of the 249 identified sites, 74 have been classified as “Dangerous” and 46 as “Extremely Dangerous.” The highest concentration of vulnerable locations is found in the S Ward covering Kanjurmarg and Vikhroli, where 116 sites have been marked unsafe. Ghatkopar accounts for 32 such locations, while Kurla has 17. Even premium localities such as Malabar Hill have reported 15 landslide-prone sites.

Geological experts have recommended the construction of protective retaining walls and slope stabilization systems to prevent rocks and debris from falling onto residential areas. Although hundreds of projects were sanctioned, implementation continues to lag behind the required pace.

Funding and Technical Hurdles Slow Progress

Officials say that landslide protection projects are being executed through multiple agencies, including the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and the Public Works Department (PWD). More than ₹400 crore was approved between 2020 and 2023 for landslide prevention initiatives. However, the pace of financial support reportedly slowed afterward, affecting project execution.

An official explained that coordination among multiple departments—including the Municipal Corporation, SRA, District Collector’s Office, and PWD—often complicates the funding and approval process. Additionally, annual risk assessments continue to identify new vulnerable locations, adding further pressure to already delayed mitigation efforts.

As Mumbai prepares for another intense monsoon season, experts warn that unfinished safety infrastructure could leave thousands of families exposed to preventable tragedies. The urgency to complete these projects has never been greater.