Bombay HC Takes Suo Motu Note of Water Shortage at MU Girls Hostel in Churchgate

The Bombay High Court on Monday took suo motu cognisance of an acute water crisis affecting more than 110 women students at the University of Mumbai's Madam Cama Girls Hostel in Churchgate. The water shortage has persisted for more than a fortnight, leaving students with an extreme deficit of even basic drinking water.

Observing that the issue is very serious, a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Ravindra Ghuge and Justice Gautam Ankhad initiated the proceedings after taking note of news reports that highlighted the severe difficulties faced by the hostel residents.

The court appointed advocate Yugandhara Khanwilkar as amicus curiae to assist the bench and study the ground situation. The bench directed Khanwilkar to draft a petition copy and submit it before the court by August 29. She was also instructed to serve the petition to state authorities so that the concerned departments can take instructions and respond. The matter has been scheduled for its next hearing on September 2.

The residential facility currently receives merely 40 to 50 litres of drinking water per day to serve all 110 students. Residents have alleged that the water shortage was triggered by work carried out on a nearby footpath by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Due to the persistent scarcity, students reported that the hostel administration unofficially advised them to temporarily stay with relatives until the water supply could be restored.

A University of Mumbai official stated that the university had previously raised the water supply issue with the BMC in November 2025, but the problem has continued unabated.

The current crisis follows prior concerns raised by residents at the Churchgate facility. In April 2025, students complained regarding irregular canteen services, insufficient drinking water, inadequate lighting, and the absence of a full-time hostel warden. While university senate members visited the premises and recommended several corrective steps leading to some repairs, the ongoing water shortage has presented a fresh crisis for the hostelites.