Mumbai: Colaba residents have come out strongly in opposition of the proposed VVIP jetty near the Gateway of India. The residents will hold a public meeting and a silent protest against the project today at Real Party Hall at Colaba’s Arthur Bunder Road at 4pm.
The residents of South Mumbai and especially Colaba have been opposing the newly proposed passenger jetty being built at the Gateway of India. They alleged that the proposed jetty threatens the iconic view of the Gateway of India, eliminates the last remaining open public space, and exacerbates existing traffic congestion and hawker encroachment issues.
To voice their opposition, residents have launched an online petition against the project garnering over 3,000 signatures. A special WhatsApp group has also been formed to organise peaceful protests, which has already been joined by over 2,000 members.
On Saturday, the residents will hold a public meeting and silent protest at Real Party Hall at Colaba’s Arthur Bunder Road at 4pm. The residents will wear black t-shirts as a symbol of protest and will urge the authorities to reconsider or relocate the project, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.
Statement Of AGNI Coordinator A Ward
Jennifer Shetty , a Colaba resident and AGNI Coordinator A ward, said, “While we greatly appreciate the government’s efforts in modernising Mumbai’s infrastructure, we are of the strong view that the Radio Club Jetty project is ill-conceived and technically flawed.”
Statement Of Dr. Laura Dsouza
Dr. Laura Dsouza, president of Cuffe Parade Residents’ Association, said, "This is a clear example of citizens being bulldozed into accepting decisions made by officials without consideration for residents' concerns. The quality of life in this city is deteriorating rapidly."
Krishna Pawle another resident of Colaba, said, “Real development should aim to improve the local area and take into account the opinions of the residents. Such decisions should not be imposed without proper consultation. Let us not forget the 26/11 attack on the Taj Mahal Hotel, an incident still fresh in the minds of many. It seems the government has overlooked the fact that this is a sensitive zone and should remain a restricted area.”
