June 25, 2025: In a significant move aimed at addressing space constraints faced by the judiciary, the Maharashtra state government has initiated the de-reservation of 30 acres within the Bandra East government colony for the construction of a new integrated Bombay High Court complex. The move involves amending the Development Plan (DP) 2034, which had previously earmarked the land for multiple civic and governmental amenities, including a cultural centre, staff quarters, public hall, playgrounds, utility services, and bus shelters.
The 30-acre parcel includes land currently occupied by the Gautam Nagar and Kamla Nagar slums, spread across 4.09 acres. Residents of these informal settlements—comprising 254 tenements, of which 138 are commercial and 116 residential—will be relocated to Malad East and Kandivali. This relocation, approved by the state cabinet, is expected to be completed within a few months.
Officials say the de-reservation is a pre-emptive measure to avoid legal challenges from slum dwellers and encroachers. The entire government colony spans 90 acres and has long been under pressure due to unregulated development. A steering committee comprising officials from the Urban Development Department, Public Works Department, BMC, and the state architect was formed last year to oversee the de-reservation process. A formal notification was issued on 20 June.
The need for a larger judicial complex has been voiced since 2014, when the first PIL on the matter was filed. The new integrated complex will include 75 courtrooms, residential units for judges, staff quarters, a library, an auditorium, and facilities for lawyers and litigants. Architect Hafeez Contractor has been appointed to design the project, which will be developed in six phases.
Some existing government staff housing blocks are being demolished, with employees being shifted to newly built towers. The issue of housing ownership post-retirement remains a contentious point within the government.
Source: Hindustan Times
