A planned infrastructure project near Mumbai’s iconic Gateway of India has come under judicial scrutiny, as concerns regarding its environmental and heritage impact were raised before the Bombay High Court. The case pertains to the proposed construction of a passenger jetty and accompanying facilities, which has drawn opposition from local residents and heritage conservationists.
During the court hearing held on Friday, it was conveyed by the Maharashtra government that the demolition of the seaside wall along P J Ramchandani Marg's footpath would not be carried out before June 20, 2025. The statement was made by Advocate General Birendra Saraf, who was representing the state in response to an urgent writ petition filed by the Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents Association. The association, representing around 400 residents, had expressed apprehensions that removal of the wall ahead of the monsoon could lead to uncontrolled seawater inflow, causing flooding and pedestrian hazards.
The High Court bench, comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Makarand S Karnik, was informed that the project includes a 1.5-acre jetty built on stilts in the sea, located 280 metres from the Gateway, near the Radio Club. It was indicated that additional infrastructure—such as VIP lounges, waiting areas, ticketing counters, an amphitheatre, and parking for 150 vehicles—had been planned as part of the initiative. The project had received approvals from several regulatory bodies, including the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA), the Heritage Conservation Committee, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). However, the petitioners contended that these permissions were allegedly granted without following due legal procedure, and were thus described as arbitrary and destructive to a historically protected area.
Concerns were also raised about the partial demolition of an old stone wall bordering the promenade between the Gateway and Radio Club. It was argued by senior advocate Aspi Chinoy, appearing for the petitioners, that any breach in this protective structure could lead to irreversible damage, especially during monsoon season. The erection of barricades restricting footpath access was pointed out as evidence that preparatory steps had already begun without public consultation. According to Saraf, the project had been conceptualised to address overcrowding at the existing boat terminal near the Gateway, where thousands of passengers currently board vessels to Mandwa and Alibaug. It was stated that the new jetty would not only enhance passenger safety but also add aesthetic value to the heritage precinct.
Despite this, the court appeared cautious, orally questioning whether construction should proceed with the onset of monsoon so close. It was asked whether piling work would necessitate immediate demolition of the wall in question. Following instructions from officials, Saraf clarified that no demolition would be undertaken before June 20. The court took the state's assurance on record and directed the respondent authorities to submit affidavits in response to the plea by June 7, with a rejoinder from the petitioners expected by June 12. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on June 16.