The residents of Colaba have intensified their opposition to the proposed jetty and amphitheatre project, with an online petition gaining nearly 2,800 signatures by Thursday evening. Aiming to reach at least 5,000 supporters, the movement seeks to pressure the government into reconsidering the Rs 229 crore project, planned between Gateway of India and Radio Club. Earlier this month, Maharashtra Fisheries & Ports Minister Nilesh Rane performed the ground-breaking ceremony, but after mounting protests, he ordered the halt of construction until April 10.
Residents argue that the jetty poses a threat to Colaba’s heritage, environment, and overall infrastructure, emphasizing that the area is already plagued by traffic congestion and overcrowding. The “Save Colaba” movement has gained traction, with locals planning a protest on April 5, where they will wear black as a symbol of dissent. The group also intends to meet Minister Rane on April 10 to propose shifting the jetty to Princess Dock, an existing alternative location.
Residents are simultaneously submitting 19 RTI applications to different authorities, such as the Mumbai Traffic Police, Heritage Conservation Committee, and Maritime Board, seeking information on project approvals and feasibility reports, and preparing to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Bombay High Court. There have been claims that workers failed to produce formal work orders when residents visited the project site last week, which has led to suspicions that the project does not have the required permits. According to activists, the jetty is being built for the benefit of VIPs while ignoring important local problems including the Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace’s increased traffic, environmental challenges, and excessive crowding, especially on weekends and holidays.
The future of the Colaba jetty project is still up in the air because of the growing protests and ongoing legal challenges. Residents have threatened to intensify their opposition in the upcoming weeks if the administration does not address public concerns.
Source: The Free Press Journal
