Mumbai: The Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC) cleared the plan for construction of a passenger jetty at Radio Club near Gateway of India. While giving its No Objection Certificate (NOC), the MHCC stated that the project would benefit both waterway passengers and tourists by segregating their movement and enhancing the aesthetics and security of Gateway of India.
However, the MHCC raised concerns about potential traffic congestion on PJ Ramchandani Marg, as the jetty entrance abuts the road. The MHCC suggested introducing an additional layover/pickup-drop lane off the existing road to regulate traffic better. It also asked Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) to take remarks from the traffic department to ensure better management of traffic and hold discussions with all stakeholders to finalise the detailing of the proposal in its NOC issued last month.
MMB officials said the project will be beneficial for both waterway passengers and Gateway of India tourists by segregating the two. It will enable better facilities for jetty passengers and, at the same time, enhance aesthetics and security of Gateway of India by decongesting the site.
Last week, within a week of the state govt making a provision of Rs 229 crore, Ports Minister Nitesh Rane performed the groundbreaking of the passenger jetty. Rane said MMB cleared doubts raised by locals regarding the jetty. However, Colaba residents asked speaker Rahul Narwekar to ‘stay’ the project. They termed the groundbreaking ceremony as hasty and accused it of ignoring their objections to the project. Residents said the jetty would have catastrophic consequences for the city and it was being pushed through without taking locals into confidence.
“This NOC is granted only from a heritage point of view and all other applicable permissions from concerned departments shall be obtained prior to starting any work at the site. Structural integrity of surrounding heritage sites and Gateway of India shall be ensured under guidance of a structural consultant. Remarks from the traffic department could be taken to ensure better management of traffic…,” the MHCC said in its order.