**Maharashtra Advocate General Defends Colaba Jetty Project in Court**
The Maharashtra Advocate General, Dr. Birendra Saraf, addressed the Bombay High Court on Monday, emphasizing the urgent need for a jetty at Colaba in South Mumbai, which he described as a “crying need for the last 25 years.” This statement came in response to opposition from local residents who are concerned about the environmental and heritage implications of the project.
Dr. Saraf presented his arguments before a bench led by Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne, during the hearing of two writ petitions filed by the Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents Association (CHCRA) and resident Laura D’Souza. These petitions challenge the state government’s plan to construct a new jetty near the Radio Club, adjacent to the renowned Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.
Local residents have organized protests under the slogan “Shift Jetty, Save Colaba,” claiming that the proposed jetty threatens the area’s delicate marine ecosystem and historic promenade. In defense of the project, Dr. Saraf, representing the Maharashtra Maritime Board, argued that the government has been working to enhance water transport infrastructure for over two decades to alleviate urban congestion. He criticized the petitions as stemming from a “not in my backyard” mentality.
“It is not for a citizen to decide. It is a policy decision and cannot be intervened upon. This entire petition is based on the perception of the petitioners, not the large number of travelers,” Dr. Saraf stated in court. He further highlighted that multiple studies have identified Colaba as the only suitable location for the new all-weather jetty, asserting, “You cannot have it at any other place but this, as there is a requirement for people to travel.” He noted that all relevant government departments have reviewed the plan and granted the necessary approvals.
Dr. Saraf pointed out that the existing five jetties at the Gateway of India are insufficient to handle the heavy commuter traffic from Mandwa, Alibag, and nearby coastal towns. He mentioned that one jetty is exclusively reserved for the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, which adds pressure on the remaining four jetties. “There is a need to maintain the sanctity of the heritage structure, the Gateway. Moreover, with large crowds in the area, security is a concern,” he added.
Addressing residents’ concerns about potential rock blasting during construction, Dr. Saraf assured the court that no such blasting would occur, citing modern construction techniques and an IIT Bombay report that indicated no harmful vibrations would affect nearby sea-facing buildings from hydraulic piling rigs.
Despite objections raised by residents during the groundbreaking ceremony, Dr. Saraf noted their continued insistence on relocating the jetty. He is expected to continue his arguments, particularly regarding government policy decisions, in the next hearing.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is the main concern of residents regarding the Colaba jetty project?**
A: Residents are primarily concerned about the environmental impact and potential threats to the area’s heritage and marine ecology posed by the proposed jetty construction.