Businesses in Mumbai, where operations are busy day and night, encounter numerous difficulties in the digital sphere. There are always hurdles in managing information and guaranteeing smooth operations. The Mumbai IT companies, however, provide some hope in the middle of the mayhem.

Mumbai’s reputation as India’s corporate hub and population of over 12 million people are attracting major IT enterprises. They are drawn to the city by its connections to global organisations and its highly skilled graduates from respected educational institutions such as IIT-B and NITIE.

IT firms are essential for businesses to stay competitive in this rapidly changing environment. They assist with the newest technology, improving operations, and making intelligent use of data.

Come along as we examine Mumbai’s top 40 IT companies. We’ll discover how they’re influencing how commerce is conducted in this thriving metropolis in India.

Table of Contents

Accenture

Accenture is a multinational provider of professional services with a focus on security, cloud, and digital services. Accenture is the biggest IT company on this list, employing 733,000 people worldwide to support over 9,000 clients across 120 countries. Along with application development, business strategy, automation, infrastructure, and cybersecurity services, it also provides cloud, data, and AI integrations. Accenture was named the world’s finest workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune in 2023, respectively. Accenture was also named the most admired IT firm in the world.

Infosys

The third-biggest provider of IT services and consulting in India, Infosys updates software systems in numerous industries. Infosys, which employs around 300,000 people across 50 countries, provides agile enterprise DevOps, cybersecurity, data-driven and AI-enhanced analytics, digital marketing, and integrations for SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, and Microsoft Cloud. Because of its people policies and reskilling initiatives, Infosys has been recognised as a top employer in the world for the third year running.

IBM

IBM, short for International Business Machines, is a US corporation with its main office located in New York. The company offers its cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics services, and it operates in 170 countries. One of the major IT firms, it has an office in Andheri East, Mumbai.

L&T Infotech

L&T Infotech, which has its headquarters in Mumbai, is the sixth-largest IT business in India based on revenue. One of the most well-known software firms in the world, the corporation has its headquarters in Powai, Mumbai, employs over 30,000 people worldwide, and offers IT consulting and products to a wide range of industries.

TCS

The biggest IT company in India is called Tata Consultancy Services. The company offers services in the areas of consulting, cloud computing, cybersecurity, cognitive business operations, and data analytics. It employs over 615,000 people in 55 countries. The 1968-founded business, which is currently valued at $158 billion on the market, began by providing services to national banks. Since then, it has grown to include e-governance, financial services, telecommunications, education, and healthcare.

iGate

The American business iGate is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 2015 saw Capgemini purchase it. It employs more than 30,000 people and has offices in 70 places. IGate offers a range of industries cloud services, enterprise mobility, and application development services.

Oracle

The US-based Oracle Corporation is a software and technology product company with its headquarters in California. At present, it stands as the second largest software company globally, with more than one lakh workers spread across multiple sites. Mumbai is home to one of its development centres.

Polaris Software

Since being purchased by Virtusa, an American business, Polaris Software is now sold under the name of its parent company. Its main office is in Southborough, USA, and its activities will include application outsourcing, systems implementation, and IT consulting.

Cognizant

With more than 1.8 lakh workers, Cognisant Technology Solutions is among the top 10 IT organisations. In Mumbai, they have three offices. With its headquarters located in New Jersey, Cognisant is a Fortune 500 enterprise.

Hexaware

Another well-known IT company in Mumbai is Hexaware. Hexaware was founded in 1990. It is an IT/BPO business that offers software services to a variety of markets, such as retail and banking. In Navi Mumbai, Hexaware has five offices.

Tech Mahindra

Tech Mahindra is an IT and consultancy company that incorporates cutting-edge technology into the digital transformation of brands. Over 1,250 companies worldwide benefit from the $6.5 billion company’s assistance with system integration of 5G, blockchain, cybersecurity, and AI technologies. Tech Mahindra provides more than just consultancy; it also provides technical solutions, business process outsourcing, SAP and Oracle updates, digital supply chain, infrastructure management, network, and testing services. With 148,000 employees spread across 90 countries, the corporation is currently regarded as one of the fastest-growing in the world of information technology.

Capgemini

Capgemini is an IT consulting and services firm that works with companies to technologise their digital operations and workflows. With its €29.9 million headquarters located in Paris, France, the company serves 85% of the 200 biggest publicly traded companies on the Forbes Global 2000 list. Capgemini, which employs 350,000 people across more than 50 countries, provides cloud migration, data, analytics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and enterprise management solutions to a range of industries, including the public sector, aerospace, defence, healthcare, and hotel. Capgemini has been recognised as one of the world’s most ethical corporations for eleven years running.

NTT DATA Services

NTT Data is an IT services provider that uses tech-enabled industry solutions and consultancy to modernise corporate processes and systems. With operations in 56 countries, the corporation employs 151,600 people to provide cloud, data, cybersecurity, and application solutions to a clientele of over 82 companies. The automotive, healthcare, banking, and insurance industries use NTT Data’s goods and services.

Jio

Over 459 million people have access to wireless internet service through Jio, a telecoms business. The largest operator in the nation, known as the “digital lifeline of India,” has 4G LTE networks that reach more than 99 percent of the country’s population. Along with a range of wifi and fibre plans, devices, and applications, it provides pre-paid and post-paid mobile plans with unlimited phone calls and SMS messaging. Jio has already started working on developing the next generation of 6G technology and has already installed 5G networks at 700 megahertz speeds in 7,764 cities.

Cogoport

With a global trade network that links importers and exporters to optimise supply chain management, Cogoport is a digital goods logistics firm. Established in 2016, the transportation company has facilitated the movement of over 478,000 containers between 192 countries and over 30,000 small and medium businesses. Through its goods marketplace, users can obtain financing options, transparent pricing discovery, verified trade partners, tracking and visibility capabilities, and real-time shipping information. About 1,000 people are employed by Cogoport at the moment, and by 2024 it hopes to have double that number.

Vodafone Idea

India’s third-biggest telecom operator is Vodafone Idea. Apart from offering wireless mobile services across 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks to 223 million Indians, the company also provides voice and SMS chats, pre-paid and post-paid packages with unlimited minutes and data, optional membership bundles and subscriptions, as well as its own international roaming coverage. Reduced latency, lower costs, and the 2020 Red Hat Innovator of the Year award went to Vodafone Idea for their migration to a universal cloud infrastructure built to run network, IT, and third-party applications from more than 100 distributed data centres.

IDfy

IDfy is an IT startup that creates AI-powered solutions to assist businesses with credential verification, fraud risk assessment, and people identification. Built with machine-learning enhanced APIs, its verification and onboarding platform can be integrated into digital workflows based on video and apps. These APIs can extract data from identity proof documents, such as an Aadhaar card, licence, or passport, while conducting background checks or obtaining KYC credentials. These services are used by clients for user, partner, and customer verification; they are also used for merchant onboarding and risk assessments of financing choices. Over 600 clients use IDfy to process approximately 25 million identities each month.

MediSage

A healthtech company called MediSage has developed an online platform that enables medical practitioners to collaborate with one another. The MediSage app connects physicians to a network of nearly one million healthcare workers and shares selected content across more than one hundred specialities. It does this by offering short videos, live presentations, forums, real-world case discussions, and evidence-based journals. The program’s goal is to enhance patient outcomes. According to Abhishek Ghosh, co-founder of MediSage, the knowledge-sharing platform’s greatest contribution is that it has evolved into a gateway that can help rural facilities managing urgent cases with little information by offering support and second opinions.

HCL Technologies

This multinational company is headquartered in India and specialised in providing IT and consulting services. The company was formed by its CEO, “Shiv Nadar,” and its main office is in Noida. HCL established itself as a stand-alone company and entered the software services sector in 1991. The corporation currently employs over 2,25,944 people worldwide and has offices in 52 countries.

As of March 2024, HCLTech has a market valuation of ₹281,209 crore, placing it among the top 20 publicly traded companies in India. It is also included in the Forbes Global 2000 list. It is also included in the list of the best Big Tech (India) firms.

Mphasis

The most well-known Indian company in Bengaluru, Mphasis Limited, provides international information technology services and excellent consultancy. They also provide architectural guidance, application management, and application development and integration. All of these services are especially made to meet the demands of the financial, telecom, technological, and logistical industries.

Mphasis is an international supplier of IT solutions, specialising in cloud and cognitive services. The company’s primary approach is to solve traditional business problems with next-generation technologies.

Traffic Tail

Traffic Tail is steadfastly dedicated to offering creative and effective services that enable companies to thrive in the rapidly changing digital environment of today. With its main office located in Delhi, the agency offers its services all across the country. Its staff of highly qualified specialists is committed to meeting and beyond your expectations.

The staff at Traffic Tail is aware that every customer is different, having different demands and objectives. Because of this, their solutions are painstakingly crafted to meet the unique needs of each customer or company they work with. Whether developing engaging websites, increasing search engine rankings, or carrying out extensive social media strategies, the agency has the know-how, creativity, and resources to produce outcomes that spur development and success.

Genpact

A productivity application called Genpact is made to automate and streamline monotonous work. When using Genpact, the first thing you do is enter your various tasks. These could be simple or complex, comprising anything from the automation of specific software activities to emails.

This platform uses artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches to perform these tasks. It decides how to execute them in the most efficient way possible and makes sure that user effort is kept to a minimum. What makes Genpact unique is its adaptability.

Wipro

This international company, which has its headquarters in India, is regarded as one of the best companies in the “Big Tech India” list and provides a variety of services, including information technology, consulting, and business process outsourcing. Wipro offers a wide range of services to customers in 167 different countries, including robots, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, computer security, digital transformation, and data analytics, among other technology consulting services.

Wipro also has a team of professionals who work in software development, consulting, and infrastructure management. The Wipro team starts by thoroughly understanding the demands of their clients before creating a solution that is perfect for that specific client.

WNS Global Services

They help businesses reach their goals by accepting assignments that could be difficult or time-consuming for them. Think of these tasks as stages in a relay race, and identify “WNS” as a reliable teammate to whom you may hand off the baton.

It offers services in many different sectors, such as banking, healthcare, insurance, and travel. For instance, they may be in charge of risk assessment or customer service in the banking sector. By doing this, they enable the bank to concentrate on its advantages. Some of these processes are automated by WNS using state-of-the-art technology, such as “AI and Machine Learning.” This leads to faster and more accurate results.

3i Infotech

ICICI Infotech Ltd. was the original name of 3i Infotech Ltd., an Indian IT business established in 1993. It operates as a global information technology company with expertise providing technological solutions to international corporations. They follow a process created especially to assist them in understanding the distinct needs of each customer, allowing them to provide tailored IT services and solutions that achieve these goals.

Among the various services they provide are IT consulting, infrastructure management, business intelligence, and application software development and maintenance. They start by carrying out a comprehensive analysis in compliance with the demands of the client. Next, the group of experts creates and builds a software solution using state-of-the-art technology.

Datamatics

An Indian company called Datamatics offers business process management, information technology (IT), data management, and consulting services to a number of large companies. They use robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning algorithms to provide the best services. Despite having its headquarters in Mumbai, the corporation operates throughout America, Australia, Asia, and Europe.

Since 1987, the company has focused more and more on providing services for electronic and computer data processing. They progressively expanded the range of services they offered to incorporate information technology and robotic process automation in order to give it a more exotic appearance.

Hexaware Technologies

Hexaware’s automation strategy seeks to automate as many processes as possible in order to reduce the need for manual labour, increase productivity, and eliminate human error. On the other hand, its cloud strategy is to make use of “cloud computing technology” in order to give data accessibility and scalability that are adequate to support the growth and adaptability of the contemporary digital business environment.

It uses digital technologies to improve the way businesses interact with their customers. This leads to increased client satisfaction and loyalty. They are able to create these strategies because of their creative thinking and in-depth knowledge of business procedures unique to their industry.

LTIMindtree

LTIMindtree Limited, a global provider of consultancy and information technology services, is based in Mumbai. When the company was established in 1996 as a branch of Larsen & Toubro, it employed about 82,000 people. Because of all these qualities, it is among the leading Big Tech companies in India.

LTI starts with a discussion of wants and requirements with clients, which is carried out by looking at the workflows and systems that the clients currently utilise. Next, they remodel all of Mumbai’s IT companies by introducing a new software system and designing a customised solution.

Tibco Software

TIBCO provides industrial-strength solutions that meet your objectives for performance, throughput, durability, and scalability while providing real-time data where it’s most needed. It does this by offering a wide range of technologies and deployment options. The TIBCO Platform will integrate an increasing collection of your solutions—hosted in the cloud, on-premises, or at the edge—into a single, unified experience to simplify administering and monitoring your TIBCO solutions.

ADe Technologies

They get along well because they respect, value, and have faith in one another.
Their greatest strength is their tremendous sense of camaraderie, which will endure forever because many of them were teammates in the leagues. They intend to rewire business operations using mobility, cloud computing, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and big data analytics.

Google

For thousands of IT grads, Google is the firm of their dreams. This massive IT company affects every aspect of your existence. Thus, you will get great exposure if you work at Google.

You’ll be working on fascinating projects. Also, there is a friendly and encouraging work culture. You’ll adore how flexible employment is.

Getting into Google could prove to be a challenging task. However, it’s among the best IT firms in Mumbai for recent graduates. The pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement will propel your career forward.

Ernst Young

On the list of IT companies in Mumbai, EY is impossible to overlook. They are among India’s biggest service providers.

EY specialises on financial and accounting in addition to IT and consulting. The largest names in the industry are on their client list. As a result, working here will provide you with priceless experience.

If you have an interest in money, this is one of the greatest locations to work.

EClerx

Are you an avid fan of science fiction films? Then you might be excited to work at EClerx. This is so that its clients’ business operations can be transformed by the company, which creates AI algorithms.

Eclerx offers creative minds countless opportunities. Get in touch with them and send them your CV if you enjoy thinking creatively.

Microsoft

Microsoft need no introduction. It is among the best software firms in the globe, as well as in Mumbai.

You have utilised its outstanding capabilities, whether you are participating in a Skype call or presenting a PowerPoint presentation. LinkedIn is a social media and professional networking site that is owned by Microsoft.

If you want to be connected to professionals in the field, this is one of the greatest organisations in Mumbai to work with.

Deloitte

One of the top four accounting firms globally is Deloitte. Additionally, it has an office in India’s financial hub.

In addition to accounting, it provides IT support and advisory services. Therefore, Deloitte has a lot to offer graduates in finance or IT.

KPMG

Amsterdam, Netherlands is home to the global headquarters of professional services firm KPMG. Mumbai is home to its Indian headquarters.

It provides a number of services, including tax, financial audit, advice, and consultation. Therefore, if you have a degree in finance or commerce, it’s the ideal area to launch your career.

3DPLM

By controlling their storage, 3DPLM eases their clients’ lives. Their areas of competence are storage and cloud computing. Large companies can therefore stop wasting storage capacity on their gadgets. They don’t need to worry about running out of space if they just put all of their important data on the cloud.

It is one of Mumbai’s leading software companies where you can get some experience. It will benefit your career in the future. Or you might even think about working for them as an intern while you’re still a college student. You’ll be ready for the workforce with that.

Sutherland Global Services

Sutherland Global Services must be included in any list of Mumbai’s software businesses. They use design to find solutions for client issues. The emphasis is on using human-centered design to revolutionise industries. Additionally, they make the designs relevant to the demands of the client by utilising big data and analytics.

They may offer some interesting chances if you are interested in data and analytics. Working for the organisation will provide you with plenty opportunity to learn about design.

The treasurer of a Resident Welfare Association (RWA) holds a pivotal position, entrusted with the management of the community’s collective funds. This role demands meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of financial regulations. Unlike other RWA board members, the treasurer is responsible for handling substantial sums of money. This involves a wide range of tasks, from timely invoice generation and debt collection to budgeting and bank account management.

To make things simpler to manage, following a few ground rules usually helps.

In this blog, we are going to talk about those basic ground rules, and that is about the number of RWA bank accounts you should have for managing your Community funds.

Managing RWA Finances: Streamlining Bank Accounts

When taking charge of supervising the finances of a Resident Welfare Association (RWA) as a Treasurer, Board Member, or Community Manager, the first question you should ask is:

How many bank accounts does the Association hold?

Ideally, the answer should be no more than 1-3 per Association.
If your Association feels that multiple bank accounts are necessary, there should be a compelling reason for it. Managing numerous RWA bank accounts can be challenging and inefficient. Here are key considerations for maintaining multiple bank accounts:

1. Structuring of Operating Fund and Reserve Fund
2. Possible Diversification against Bank Defaults

Typically, you can manage with just two RWA bank accounts:

1. Operating Account: This account handles the day-to-day operations and expenses of the homeowners association or RWA.
2. Reserve Fund Account: This account is for the community’s savings, used for large future projects or unexpected major expenses (e.g., building painting, new play area construction, significant repairs due to natural calamities).

Some RWAs end up opening multiple bank accounts to manage various segments, such as different types of reserve fund requirements or different operating expenses. Additionally, some may open multiple accounts to take advantage of various benefits or offers from banks. However, creating too many segments can lead to complications in managing the accounts. It’s best to keep things simple and streamlined with just two accounts unless there are strong reasons for more.

Challenges of Multiple RWA Bank Accounts

Maintaining multiple bank accounts for an RWA can introduce several complexities:

1. Increased Administrative Burden: Each account requires regular reconciliation with financial records, a time-consuming process even for inactive accounts.
2. Operational Challenges: Whenever the RWA board changes, updating signatory details across multiple accounts can be cumbersome and error-prone. Overlooking a single account can freeze its funds.
3. Potential for Misuse: Less frequently used accounts may receive less scrutiny, increasing the risk of financial irregularities.

So, the first day in office for a Treasurer should be to take stock of the Bank Accounts! Sunset redundant Bank Accounts, and ensure any new Bank Account opening follows a Due Diligence process – Passing a Board Resolution is just one of them.

Mr. George Samson,
Assistant General Manager at Divyasree Infrastructure Projects Private Ltd

A building handover is a critical process where a completed building is transferred from the builder to the residents. This transition can be particularly challenging for new RWAs without a clear understanding of the process. To shed light on common questions and offer valuable tips, we spoke with Mr. George Samson, Assistant General Manager at Divyasree Infrastructure Projects Private Ltd.

Q1. What exactly does the building handover process entail? What are your responsibilities in this regard?

The building handover process generally involves a structured transition between the builder and the RWA, divided into two main aspects: asset management and documentation.

Asset Management: I oversee the handover of physical assets, including amenities and common spaces. This involves verifying and documenting the condition of these assets. To ensure a smooth transition, we collaborate with the RWA to review and finalize the assets. In some cases, we might engage a third-party service to create a snagging list to identify and address any issues.
Documentation: My colleagues in the CRM team manage the documentation side of the handover. We collect and maintain all necessary documents throughout the construction process, ensuring everything is prepared for the RWA by the time of handover. This includes providing detailed drawings, warranty cards, and other essential documents.
Additionally, billing is typically done quarterly in advance. By the start of the new quarter, we finalize and transfer the funds to the RWA, allowing them to handle maintenance charges. During the initial three months after the handover, we focus on facilitating a smooth transition while the RWA takes over the day-to-day management of the project.

Q2. How do you think the approach to this particular process has changed over the years?

There have certainly been notable changes. One significant shift is the increased involvement of residents in the handover process. Nowadays, residents are more proactive, often approaching builders directly to communicate their specific needs and timelines. This direct engagement helps builders align their efforts with residents’ expectations, allowing for better cost management and timely delivery.

Transitioning between builders and RWAs can still be complex and time-consuming, but having residents directly involved can smooth out many issues. When residents address their concerns early in the process, it helps resolve potential discrepancies right away. While differences can still be discussed and resolved later, addressing key issues during initial discussions can significantly expedite the handover. Many newly formed associations are adopting this proactive approach, leading to a more efficient and streamlined process.

Q3. Have there been any changes with the tools used by your company concerning the handover process?

Yes, there have been significant changes. With the integration of advanced technology, the handover process has become much simpler. For example, digital tools now allow us to manage and access historical data related to assets like roads without needing to search through physical documents. Financial records, including bank account details, are also stored digitally, making management and tracking more efficient.
Additionally, digitalization has enhanced security and compliance with data protection and privacy laws. Tools such as the MyGate database enable us to easily find and manage specific details, including construction progress, payments made, and outstanding dues.

Q4. What are some practices RWAs can adopt to ensure the process goes by smoothly?

1. It can be challenging when RWA members have differing opinions. Proper discussions and mutual agreements can help unify opinions and simplify the process.
2. Outsourcing to a knowledgeable third party, like an advocate, can ensure all requirements are met and discrepancies are identified.
3. Creating a comprehensive list of requests and requirements will communicate your society’s needs to the builder.

Click here to download the ultimate checklist for handovers.

The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has introduced new guidelines to oversee the advertisement and development of senior living communities. These measures aim to address concerns about misleading promotions and substandard conditions in projects marketed as “Retirement Homes.” This blog will break down the key aspects of the new guidelines and their implications for community residents and management committees.

Why New Guidelines?

To combat these issues, MahaRERA has set several mandatory physical criteria for projects to be advertised as “Retirement Homes/Senior Homes.” Here are the main points:

• Building Design:
  • Buildings with more than one floor must have wheelchair-accessible lifts.
  • Door openings must be at least 900 mm wide.
  • Door knobs and handles should be easy to grip, and furniture should be lightweight, sturdy, and free of sharp edges.
• Green Building Principles:
  • Emphasis on using non-polluting and renewable energy sources to reduce exposure to harmful fumes and exhaust.
  • Projects must comply with green building norms specified in the model building bylaws.
• Lifts and Ramps:
  • Lifts must have audio and visual signage.
  • Mandatory ramps throughout the building for wheelchair access.
• Staircase:
  • Staircases must have handrails on both sides, with treads and risers meeting standards for senior citizens.
  • Stairs should be illuminated with fluorescent or radium strips, and long flights of steps should be avoided.
• Corridors:
  • No steps should be introduced in corridors; if unavoidable, ramps should be provided.
  • Handrails must be installed along corridor walls at suitable heights.
• Kitchens and Bathrooms:
  • Kitchens should have gas leak detection systems, and bathrooms should have anti-skid tiles, outward-opening doors, and grab rails near wash basins.
• Lighting and Ventilation:
  • Power backup facilities must be available in each apartment, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Lighting and ventilation should comply with the model building bylaws and the National Building Code (NBC).
• Safety and Security:
  • Emergency alarms should be installed in main entry doors, bathrooms, bedrooms, and common areas.
  • Trained security personnel and CCTV cameras must be deployed in common areas.
  • Firefighting services and disaster preparedness plans must be in place, with emergency contact numbers prominently displayed.

These guidelines are intended to ensure that senior living communities offer a safe, accessible, and comfortable environment for senior citizens. For residents, these standards mean better living conditions and enhanced safety measures. For management committees, the guidelines provide a clear framework for maintaining and promoting retirement homes.

Fire safety in residential buildings is of great importance, particularly in a densely populated city like Bangalore. According to Bangalore’s bylaws, strict fire safety measures are mandatory to ensure the protection of residents and property. These regulations require residential buildings to be equipped with adequate fire prevention and suppression systems, such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. Make sure your society is prepared in case of a fire emergency with these guidelines.

1. Emergency Exits

RWAs should ensure that the building’s construction meets fire safety guidelines and is well-maintained. The different aspects RWAs should look for are:

• Every building meant for human occupancy shall be provided with exits sufficient to permit safe escape of occupants, in case of fire or other emergency.
• In every building for multi-family dwellings and all places of assembly, exits shall comply with the minimum requirements of these bylaws.
• All exits shall be free of obstructions.
• No building shall be altered to reduce the number, and size of exits to less than that required.
• Exits shall be visible Routes to reach the exits shall be clearly marked and signs posted to guide the persons using each floor.
• Wherever necessary, adequate and continuous illumination shall be provided for exits.
• Firefighting equipment shall be suitably located and marked.
• Alarm devices shall be installed to ensure prompt evacuation of the persons concerned.
• All exits shall provide continuous means of egress to the exterior of buildings or the exterior open space leading to a street.
• Exits shall be so arranged that they may be reached without passing through another occupied unit.

2. Staircase

• Interior stairs shall be constructed of non-combustive materials.
• Interior staircases of all buildings except for residential buildings up to GF+3 floors shall be constructed as self-contained units with at least one side adjacent to an external wall. The staircase shall be completely enclosed in the case of buildings of 15 meters height and above.
• A staircase shall not be arranged around a lift shaft unless the latter is entirely enclosed by a material of fire resistance rating.
• Hollow combustible construction shall not be permitted.
• The minimum width of an internal staircase Is 1.0 mtr. For residential buildings.
• The minimum width of treads without nosing Is 25mtr. For residential societies.
• The maximum riser is 19cm for residential buildings.
• Handrails shall be provided with a minimum height of 100 cm. for all buildings and shall be firmly supported.
• No windings should be provided in a public building except in the case of emergency exits.
• Fire escapes or external stairs:
  • All fire escapes above ground level shall be directly connected to the ground and shall not lead to the basement floor.
  • All entrances to a fire escape shall be separate and remote from the internal staircase.
  • The route to the fire escape shall be free of obstruction at all times except a doorway leading to the fire escape which shall have the required fire resistance.
  • Fire escapes shall be constructed of non-combustible materials.
  • Stairs of fire escapes shall have straight flights not less than 75 cm. wide, 20 cm. tread, and risers not more than 19 cm. The number of risers shall be limited to 16 per flight.
  • Handrails shall be of a height of not less than 100 cm.
  • Spiral stairs (fire escape) – The use of spiral staircases shall be limited to low occupant loads and buildings of not more than 9 metres in height unless they are connected to platforms such as balconies and terraces to provide for a pause during an escape. A spiral fire escape shall be not less than 150 cm in diameter and shall be designed to give adequate headroom.

3. Ramps

Ramps with a slope of not more than 1:10 may be substituted and shall comply with all the applicable requirements of required stairways regarding enclosures, capacity and dimensions. Larger slopes shall be provided for special uses but in no case greater than 1 in 10. For all slopes exceeding, 1:10 and wherever the use is such as to involve danger of slipping, the ramp shall be surfaced with approved non-slipping materials

4. Exit corridors and passageways

Exit corridors and passageways shall be of a width of not less than twice the aggregate required width of exit doorways leading from them in the direction of travel to the exits. Where stairways discharge through corridors and passageways, the height of corridors and passageways shall be not less than 2.4 mtrs.

Fire safety in residential buildings is important, particularly in a densely populated city like Mumbai. According to Mumbai’s bylaws, strict fire safety measures are mandatory to protect residents and property. These regulations require residential buildings to be equipped with adequate fire prevention and suppression systems, such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. Make sure your society is prepared in case of a fire emergency with these guidelines.

What should one look out for?

1. Fire Alarm systems

Fire alarms are important in residential buildings because they warn people about smoke or fire, helping them escape quickly and safely. They allow residents to put out small fires before they get bigger, which can prevent damage to homes. Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure fire alarms work properly when needed. All buildings of 15 m. and above in height should be equipped with fire alarm systems and residential buildings (Dwelling Houses, Boarding Houses, and Hostels) above 24 m. height.

• All residential buildings like dwelling houses (including flats) boarding houses and hostels should be equipped with a manually operated electrical fire alarm system with one or more call boxes located on each floor. The location of the call boxes should be decided after considering their floor without having to travel more than 22.5 m.
• The call boxes should be of the break-glass type without any moving parts, where the call is transmitted automatically to the control room without any other action on the part of the person operating the call boxes.
• All call boxes should be wired in a closed circuit to a control panel in a control room, located as per Bye-Laws so that the floor number from where the call box is actuated is indicated on the control panel. The circuit should also include one or more batteries with a capacity of 48 hours of normal working at full load. The battery should be arranged to be continuously trickle-charged.

2. Emergency Exits

RWAs should ensure that the building’s construction meets fire safety guidelines and is well-maintained. The different aspects RWAs should look for are:

• Every building meant for human occupancy should be provided with exits sufficient to permit the safe escape of occupants in case of fire or other emergency.
• Exits should be visible, and free of obstructions, and the routes to reach exits should be marked and signs posted to guide the occupants of the floor concerned.
• Fire fighting equipment provided along exits should be suitably located and marked but must not obstruct the exit way and there should be clear indication about its location from either side of the exit way.
• Alarm devices should be installed to ensure prompt evacuation of the occupants concerned through the exits, wherever required.
• All exits should provide continuous means of egress to the exterior of a building or an exterior open space leading to a street.

3. Lifts enclosure

General requirements are as follows:

• Walls of lift enclosures should have a fire rating of two hours. Lift shafts should have a vent at the top of the area not less than 0.2 sq m.
• The lift motor room should be located preferably on top of the shaft and separated from the shaft by the floor of the room.
  c) Landing door in lift enclosures should have a fire resistance of not less than one hour.
• The number of lifts in one lift bank should not exceed four. A wall of two hours fire rating should separate individual shafts in a bank.
• Lift car door should have a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour.
• For buildings 15.0 m. and above in height, collapsible gates should not be permitted for lifts and solid doors with fire resistance of at least one hour should be provided.
• If the lift shaft and lobby are in the core of the building a positive pressure between 25 and 30 pa should be maintained in the lobby and a possible pressure of 50 pa should be maintained in the lift shaft. The mechanism for the pressurization should act automatically with the fire alarm/sprinkler system and it should be possible to operate this mechanically also.
• Exit from the lift lobby, if located in the core of the building, should be through a self-closing fire smoke check door of one-hour fire resistance.
• Lift should not normally communicate with the basement. If however, lifts are in communication, the lift lobby of the basement should be pressurized as in (g)
  with the self-closing door as in (h).
• Grounding switch (es), at ground floor level should be provided to enable the
  fire service to ground the lifts.
• Telephone/talk back communication facilities may be provided in lift cars for
  communication system and lifts should be connected to the fire control room of
  the building.
• Suitable arrangements such as providing a slope in the floor of the lift lobby
  should be made to prevent water used during fire fighting, etc at any landing from entering the lift shafts.
• A sign should be posted and maintained on every floor at or near the lift
  indicating that in case of fire, occupants should use the stairs unless instructed
  otherwise. The sign should also contain a plan for each floor showing the
  location of the stairways. Floor marking should be done on each floor on the
  wall in front of the lift-landing door.
• Alternate power supply should be provided in all the lifts.

4. Fire Lift

Fire lifts are special elevators designed to help firefighters access upper floors during emergencies. They are crucial for high-rise residential buildings to ensure swift rescue operations.

The following details should apply for a fire lift:

• To enable fire service personnel to reach the upper floors with the minimum delay, one or more of the lifts should be designed so as to be available for the exclusive use of the fireman in an emergency and be directly accessible to every dwelling/lettable floor space on each floor.
• The lift should have a floor area of not less than 1.4 sq. mt. It should have a loading capacity of not less than 545 kg. (8 persons lift) with automatic closing doors.
• The electric supply should be on a separate service from electric supply mains in a building and the cables run in a route safe from fire, that is within a lift shaft. Lights and fans in the elevator having wooden paneling or sheet steel construction should be operated on a 24-volt supply.
• In case of failure of the normal electric supply, it should automatically switch over to the alternate supply. For apartment houses, this changeover of supply could be done through a manually operated changeover switch. Alternatively, the lift should be so wired that in case of power failure, it comes down at the ground level and comes to stand still with the door open.
• The operation of a fire lift should by a single toggle of a two-button switch situated in a glass-fronted box adjacent to the lift at the entrance level. When the switch is on landing; call points will become inoperative and the lift will be on car control only or on a priority control device. When the switch is off, the lift will return to normal working. This lift can be used by the occupants in normal times.
• The words ‘FIRE LIFT’ should be conspicuously displayed in fluorescent paint on the lift landing doors at each floor level.
• The speed of the fire lift should be such that it can reach the top floor from ground level within one minute.

5. Doorways

• Every doorway should open into an enclosed stairway, a horizontal exit, or a corridor or passageway providing continuous and protected means of egress.
  b) No exit doorways should be less than l00 cm in width and 150 cm in case of hospital and ward block. Doorways should not be less than 200 cm in height.
• Exit doorways should open outwards, that is away from the room but should not obstruct the travel along any exit. No door when opened should reduce the required width of the stairway or landing to less than 100 cm. An overhead or sliding door should not be installed.
• The exit door should not open immediately upon a flight or stairs. A landing equal to at least, the width of the door should be provided in the stairway at each doorway. The level of landings should be the same as that of the floor, which it serves.
• Exit doorways should be openable from the side, which they serve without the use of a key.
• Revolving doors should not be allowed.

6. Staircase & Passage Requirement

There should be a minimum of two staircases one of them should be an enclosed stairway and the other should be on the external walls of the building and should open directly to the exterior, interior open space, or to any open place of safety. Single staircase may be accepted for educational, business, or group housing societies where floor area does not exceed 300 sq m. and height of the building does not exceed 24 m. and other requirements of occupant load travel distance and width of staircase should meet the requirement. The single staircase in such case should be on the outer wall of the building.

Minimum Width Provisions for Stairways

• The following minimum width provisions should be made for each stairway:
• Residential low-rise building 0.9 m.
• Other residential buildings e.g. flats, hostels, group housing, guest houses, etc 1.25 m.
• Interior stairs should be constructed of non-combustible material throughout.
• Interior stairs should be constructed as a self-contained unit with at least one side adjacent to an external wall and should be completely enclosed.
• A staircase should not be arranged around a lift shaft for buildings 15.0 m. and above height. The staircase location should be to the satisfaction of the Chief Fire Officer.
• Hollow combustible construction should not be permitted.
• The minimum width of the internal staircase should be as given in by-law 4.8.6.
• The minimum width of treads without nosing should be 25 cm. for an internal staircase for residential high-rise buildings. In the case of other buildings, the minimum tread should be 30 cm. The treads should be constructed and maintained in a manner to prevent slipping. Winders should be allowed in residential buildings provided they are not at the head of a downward flight.
• The maximum height of the riser should be 19 cm. in the case of residential high-rise buildings and 15 cm in the case of other buildings They should be limited to 12 per flight.
• Handrails should be provided with a minimum height of 100 cm. from the center of the tread.
• The minimum headroom in a passage under the landing of a staircase and under the staircase should be 2.2 m.
• For buildings more than 24 m. in height, access to the main staircase should be through a lobby created by a double door with a one-hour fire rating. One of the doors will be fixed in the wall of the staircase and the other after the lobby.
• No living space, store, or other fire risk should open directly into the staircase or staircases.
• The external exit door of the staircase enclosure at ground level should open directly to the open spaces or can be reached without passing through any door other than a door provided to form a draught lobby.
• The main staircase and fire escape staircase should be continuous from the ground floor to the terrace level.
• No electrical shafts/AC ducts or gas pipes etc. should pass through the staircase. The lift should not open on the staircase landing.
  o) No combustible material should be used for decoration/wall paneling in the staircase.
• Beams/columns and other building features should not reduce the headroom/width of the staircase.
• The exit sign with an arrow indicating the way to the escape route should be provided at a suitable height from the floor level on the wall and should be
  illuminated by an electric light connected to corridor circuits. All exit way
  marking signs should be flush with the wall and so designed that no
  mechanical damage should occur to them due to the moving of furniture or other
  heavy equipment. Further, all landings of the floor should have floor-indicating
  boards indicating the number of floors as per the bylaws.
  The floor indication board should be placed on the wall immediately facing the
  flight of stairs and nearest to the landing. It should be of a size not less than 0.2
  m. x 0.5 m.
• Individual floors should be prominently indicated on the wall facing the
  Staircase.
• In the case of a single staircase it should terminate at the ground floor level and the access to the basement should be by a separate staircase. However, the second staircase may lead to basement levels provided the same is separated at ground level either by a ventilated lobby with discharge points at two different ends through enclosures.

Minimum Width Provisions for Passageway/Corridors

The following minimum width provisions should be made for each passageway/corridor:

• Residential buildings, dwelling unit type 1.0 m.