Delhi, 28 May (H.S.): The Supreme Court recently declined to hear a petition challenging the ₹229 crore passenger jetty construction at the Gateway of India in Mumbai, citing that the Bombay High Court is already addressing the issue. The Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, and Justice AG Masih urged the High Court to resolve the matter swiftly, ideally before the end of the monsoon season. The petition, filed by the Clean and Heritage Colaba Residents Association alongside individual petitioners, criticizes the project for being arbitrary, lacking public consultation, and threatening the historic seafront's character. The opponents claim that the jetty, which will feature VIP lounges and a parking facility for 150 cars, is designed primarily for the affluent, facilitating access for celebrity yachts and private ferries. Senior Advocate Sanjay Hegde, representing the petitioners, emphasized that the project serves mainly a privileged society, arguing against its development without adequate public input. The Court highlighted the recurring theme of local objections arising from personal impact perceptions.

Senior Advocate Sanjay Hegde engaged in a legal discussion concerning a public infrastructure project in Maharashtra, which Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati defended by emphasizing its significance for daily commuters. Bhati asserted it serves a legitimate public purpose despite local opposition. Chief Justice Gavai noted a recurring trend of resistance to civic infrastructure, particularly in urban areas, often justified by residents' proximity concerns. He highlighted this 'not in my backyard syndrome,' referencing how people generally support projects like sewage treatment plants, provided they are not located near their homes. The Chief Justice pointed out existing proposals to improve coastal infrastructure, such as connecting Vashi and Dombivli via sea routes, illustrating the benefits of such developments. Meanwhile, as the Bombay High Court is set to hear the case on June 16, the Supreme Court chose not to intervene and urged the High Court to expedite its proceedings on the merits of the matter, having previously declined to halt the ongoing construction work.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar