Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Feb 1: The Bombay High Court has struck down an order issued by the Secretary of Urban Development that had halted the demolition of a dangerously dilapidated building in Vasco, restoring the demolition directive issued by the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC).

Justice Valmiki Menezes ruled that the one-storey structure, known as Shridhar Building, located in the heart of Vasco and housing more than 20 commercial establishments, poses a serious and immediate threat to public safety. The court directed the MMC’s chief officer to ensure that all occupants vacate the premises, secure and cordon off the area, and complete the demolition within eight weeks.

The court firmly rejected requests from business operators within the building who sought additional time to vacate. Citing a detailed assessment by Goa Engineering College dated January 9, 2026, Justice Menezes noted that the structure was at high risk of sudden collapse. The report warned that any failure could result in loss of life, endangering both occupants and pedestrians in the surrounding area. In view of this assessment, the court made it clear that no further extensions would be granted.

The High Court also found fault with the urban development secretary’s decision to overturn the MMC chief officer’s demolition order issued on January 18, 2024. It held that there was no legal justification for such interference and confirmed that the original demolition order fully complied with the provisions of Section 190 of the relevant municipal law.

Emphasising the importance of expert opinion, the court observed that the Goa Engineering College report offered a thorough and unequivocal recommendation for demolition, leaving no room for doubt about the danger posed by the structure if allowed to remain standing.