The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has approved the construction of a Rs 229-crore passenger jetty and terminal building near the Gateway of India, days after the Supreme Court refused to stay the project. The clearance was communicated to the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) on Wednesday, enabling the state to move forward with the long-pending development in Colaba’s Radio Club area.
Maharashtra Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane reiterated the government’s commitment to timely execution. “We are committed to enhancing infrastructure in the public interest,” he said.
Despite official support, the project continues to face stiff resistance from local residents. Citizens, particularly from the Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents Association (CHCRA), have voiced concerns over potential damage to the heritage precinct and worsening traffic conditions along Prem Ramchandani Marg, a critical stretch near the Gateway.
The Bombay High Court had earlier declined to stay construction, citing public interest. A subsequent plea in the Supreme Court challenging this decision was also dismissed on May 27, with the apex court emphasising that the matter remains under the high court’s jurisdiction, which is scheduled to hear it on June 16. Chief Justice B.R. Gavai stressed that no comments were made regarding the merits of the case.
The proposed facility is part of a broader initiative to upgrade marine infrastructure around the Gateway of India, which currently handles heavy passenger boat traffic. Once completed in an estimated 30 months, the new jetty will handle up to 20 boats and feature a terminal with an 80 sqm amphitheatre for 350 people, alongside CCTV surveillance, landscaping, and fire safety systems.
Officials maintain that the project will help decongest the current jetty area by rerouting boat services to the new site.
Source: Deccan Herald
