Mumbai: Portion of 500-Year-Old Matriz Church Tower Collapses at Vasai Fort, Heritage Conservation Under Scrutiny
Mumbai, 3rd August 2026: A portion of the tower and sanctuary roof of the nearly 500-year-old Matriz Church (Chakrimadi Church) inside Vasai Fort collapsed following heavy rainfall, raising fresh concerns over the preservation of one of Maharashtra’s significant Portuguese-era heritage structures.
Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported in the incident. However, the collapse has once again highlighted concerns over the alleged lack of maintenance and conservation by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
The Matriz Church, an important historical landmark within Vasai Fort, has reportedly not undergone any major structural restoration or reinforcement for nearly 150 years. Continuous heavy rains are believed to have weakened the already deteriorating structure, leading to the collapse of part of the tower and the sanctuary roof.
The incident has also raised serious public safety concerns. Every morning between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., local youth reportedly use the area for cricket, while tourists, history enthusiasts, and college students visit the fort throughout the day. Despite the deteriorating condition of the structure, there are reportedly no warning signs, barricades, or restrictions preventing visitors from entering the hazardous sections.
Following the collapse, local residents and heritage conservationists have demanded immediate action to secure the remaining portions of the church, restrict access to dangerous areas, and begin urgent restoration work to prevent further damage.
Historian Shridatt Raut said the Matriz Church is not merely an old building but a living symbol of Vasai’s rich history. He noted that repeated appeals had been made to authorities regarding the deteriorating condition of the structure and warned that failure to strengthen safety measures could result in a major tragedy. He also urged the Archaeological Survey of India to allocate funds immediately and undertake comprehensive conservation work to protect the remaining heritage structure.
The incident has renewed calls for stronger preservation efforts for Vasai Fort’s historic monuments, many of which continue to deteriorate due to age, weather, and inadequate maintenance.
