​Colaba residents have filed a writ petition in the Bombay High Court to halt the construction of a controversial passenger jetty and terminal near the Radio Club, close to the Gateway of India. The Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents’ Association (CHCRA), representing over 400 residents, argues that the project threatens the area’s heritage character and was approved without adequate public consultation.

Heritage Impact: The project site lies within the buffer zone of the Grade I listed Gateway of India monument. Residents contend that the construction, which includes a terminal building and a jetty extending over half a kilometre into the sea, will visually disrupt the iconic structure and alter the historic seafront.

Regulatory Compliance: The CHCRA challenges the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority’s (MCZMA) approval, arguing that the large-scale project does not qualify as a ‘standalone jetty’ under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification.

Lack of Transparency: Residents claim they were not given an opportunity to review or object to the project plans. Despite a meeting on March 29, where authorities promised to share 27 relevant documents, only three were provided.

Traffic and Accessibility: The petition highlights concerns about increased traffic congestion in an already crowded area. The Mumbai Traffic Police’s No Objection Certificate (NOC) is also contested, as it allegedly considers only the construction phase, not the operational impact.

Exclusivity of Use: Statements from the state’s minister for ports development suggest the jetty would cater exclusively to VIPs, celebrities, and cricketers’ yachts, raising questions about its public utility.

Government’s Position

The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) maintains that the ₹229 crore project aims to decongest the existing Gateway of India jetty by accommodating up to 20 boats simultaneously. The new terminal is expected to include facilities like an amphitheatre, berthing jetty, and enhanced safety measures.

Despite assurances to halt construction until all documents were reviewed, residents observed barricades and initial construction activities at the site, prompting legal action.

Current Status

The Bombay High Court is set to hear the petition filed by the CHCRA. Residents seek an injunction to prevent further construction and the demolition of the promenade wall, emphasizing the need to preserve the heritage and accessibility of the Gateway precinct.

Sources