The state government’s ambitious project for a passenger jetty and terminal near the Gateway of India (Radio Club) is now expected to be operational by August.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed officials to complete the project as soon as possible.
Though the project, costing INR 229 crore, has faced opposition from local residents and environmental activists, the Mumbai High Court and the Supreme Court have approved the project.
Through this project, the state government aims to boost tourism, enhance maritime safety, and reduce traffic congestion in the Colaba area.
In Raigad district’s Alibaug, several luxurious bungalows owned by film personalities, cricketers, and business leaders exist, and they often travel using the five jetties along the coast.
These movements frequently cause severe traffic congestion in South Mumbai (Mumbai). Even the wife of a former Chief Minister was affected by this congestion.
Approximately 30–35 lakh passengers use these jetties every year. For more than a decade, the government has been trying to build a modern jetty at this location.
However, due to opposition from local residents, the project was delayed. It was argued that the jetty could impact the historic Gateway of India.
Concerns were also raised that it could pose a threat to maritime safety, and some former naval officers opposed it.
Petitions filed against this project were rejected by the Mumbai High Court and later dismissed by the Supreme Court in September.
The jetty, shaped like a tennis racket, will cost INR 229 crore. Former Finance Minister Ajit Pawar initially approved INR 80 crore for the project.
According to an official from the Maharashtra Maritime Board, the jetty was expected to start by May this year, but it will now open for passengers in August after the monsoon.
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