September 2, 2025: The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed fresh challenges to the Rs 229-crore Passenger Water Terminal (PWT) project adjacent to the Gateway of India in Colaba, with the Maharashtra government assuring that all requisite environmental approvals had been secured. The project is intended to cut travel time significantly between Colaba and destinations such as Navi Mumbai, Mandvi, and Alibaug.
A bench of Chief Justice of India Bhushan R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran declined to interfere with the Bombay High Court’s ruling, which had validated the state’s decision to proceed with the construction of the passenger jetty and terminal near Apollo Bunder’s Radio Club.
The petitioners, including the Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents’ Association, argued that the large-scale jetty was being constructed without proper clearances from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority or the central government. They further contended that accommodating 20 boats at a time would generate congestion and damage the heritage character of the Gateway precinct.
Representing the state, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta countered that the petitioners had wrongly equated the jetty with ports designed for cargo operations. He stressed that the High Court had relied on the principle of sustainable development, balancing growth with environmental safeguards.
When objections were raised about the project’s proximity to the Gateway of India, Mehta accused the residents of adopting a “not in my backyard” approach. Chief Justice Gavai observed that Mumbai’s wider population — from Girgaum to Dombivli and Borivli — stood to benefit from efficient sea transport.
Ports Minister Nitesh Rane welcomed the verdict, calling it a “green signal” for the ambitious project. He said the terminal would provide modern amenities such as a waiting lounge, ticket counters, parking and administrative offices, while the existing jetty would be phased out.
Source: The Times Of India
