A derelict mansion called Schoen House in Colaba located at Nathalal Parekh Marg, directly opposite the YMCA, has become a site of substantial concern for residents in the area. This structure has ankle deep debris at certain spots, and it is even higher in front of the compound, trailing on its sides. Papers, plastic, half-eaten plates of food, bottles, cloth, packets, sacks and other garbage are seen. One witnessed a large number of garbage bags tossed around and a rolled-up bedroll was also stacked to the side. In fact, the debris was so high that it spilled over the broken perimeter fence and out of the gate.

There was a stink emanating from the garbage all around which was also wet because of monsoon showers when this correspondent visited the site. Owner Yogesh Mehta did not reply to questions about the state of his property saying he was suffering from ill-health. When pressed for comment, Mehta called it tantamount to harassment. “Stop bothering me kindly. This is harassing me indirectly. Stop doing this, otherwise I will have to file a complaint,” he said.