Mumbai: The BMC has ordered the closure of Orchid City Centre Mall on Bellasis Road in Mumbai Central and disconnection of water supply and electricity, following Supreme Court’s directions regarding the fire-damaged premises.On Tuesday, the BMC had issued notices to the owners and developers of galas, shops and units, directing them to vacate the mall premises. Officials said electricity supply will be disconnected, except for power required for permissible construction and repair activities.On Aug 25, the SC directed that the entire structure, which was damaged in a fire in 2020, should not be used for any purpose until the developer completes repairs and the BMC is satisfied that all floors are safe for use and all statutory requirements have been fulfilled. The court also directed the authorities to ensure that no one be permitted to enter the premises.Thereafter, BMC’s D-Ward assistant commissioner convened a meeting with officials of the concerned departments and police, and representatives of the mall were asked to ensure immediate, voluntary, and strict compliance with SC’s directions. The building & factory and building proposals departments, along with Mumbai Fire Brigade, have initiated measures for evacuation and securing the premises.According to civic officials, two floors of the mall were damaged in the 2020 fire and have to be repaired and reconstructed. “Repairs and reconstruction were carried out partially, and about 600 small shops/galas were functional on the ground- and first-floors of the mall,” said a civic official.Following the 2020 blaze, the BMC had demolished unauthorised shops/galas inside the mall.
