Rs 229 Crore Colaba Jetty Project Approved by Supreme Court with Conditions
The Supreme Court of India has upheld the Bombay High Court’s approval for a ₹229 crore passenger jetty and terminal near the Gateway of India, Mumbai, rejecting concerns raised by local residents’ groups about heritage and congestion.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran dismissed the appeal filed by the Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents Association against the High Court’s July 15 order. The High Court had earlier permitted the project with strict conditions to ensure limited use of facilities.
As per the High Court’s directions, the amphitheatre at the terminal can only be used for seating, not entertainment; the café is restricted to serving only water and packaged food; and the existing jetty must be closed gradually. The Court also noted the lack of a sewage treatment facility but refused to stall the project, stressing that the jetty’s primary purpose is embarkation and disembarkation of passengers.
During arguments, Senior Advocate CU Singh for the petitioners said the project, just 250 metres from the current jetty, would not ease congestion and could harm the heritage character of the Gateway area. The petitioners also flagged missing approvals from the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority and inadequate public consultation.
They argued the jetty’s large design—featuring VIP lounges, waiting halls, ticket counters, and parking for 150 vehicles—would overwhelm the historic surroundings and worsen traffic in one of Mumbai’s busiest zones.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the State of Maharashtra, defended the project, stating it was in the larger public interest and would benefit the entire city, not just a few residents living near the Gateway. The Chief Justice echoed this view, remarking that infrastructure decisions cannot be judged only from the perspective of elite neighbourhoods.
Despite objections over heritage, traffic, and environmental approvals, the Supreme Court agreed with the Bombay High Court’s balanced approach, allowing the project to move forward under strict monitoring and limited use conditions.Case Title:Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents Association vs. State of Maharashtra & Ors.
