Dilapidated bldgs on NMC’s radar ahead of monsoon

Nashik: The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has asked property owners of dilapidated properties in the city to remove hazardous portions of dilapidated buildings ahead of the monsoon.The civic body has also cautioned that it will undertake the removal of dangerous portions on its own with police assistance if owners or occupants fail to act.The action follows a detailed survey conducted by the town planning department in 2024 to assess the condition of old and dilapidated wadas and buildings in the city. The survey identified 1,192 wadas and buildings in a dilapidated state, with a majority of them still occupied by residents.The highest number of dilapidated wadas was found in Nashik West (701), followed by Panchavati area (176) and Nashik East division (127). Officials said these structures are particularly vulnerable during the monsoon due to weakened foundations and ageing construction.The NMC issued a public notice on Saturday as a precautionary measure to prevent accidents caused by the collapse of unsafe structures during heavy rain. The NMC has made it clear that if occupants fail to vacate, the buildings will be cleared with police assistance under Section 268 of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act.A senior official from the town planning department said that while some owners have vacated dilapidated buildings and removed hazardous portions, a majority are yet to take corrective action.The official added that disputes between owners and tenants have emerged as a major hurdle. "In many cases, owners want the dilapidated buildings or wadas to be demolished, while tenants oppose demolition as they fear losing their rights and claims over the properties," the official said.