Bombay High Court Considers Goregaon for New Complex Amid Delays in Bandra Site Development

The Bombay High Court recently queried whether land in Goregaon could be allocated for its new court complex, following the revelation that the previously considered 30 acres in Bandra East might not be ready until 2026. This inquiry was made after the State Public Works Department (PWD) suggested that only 13 of the 30 acres would be vacated by the end of March 2025 due to the current residents who are government employees.

Judicial Bench's Considerations

During a session presided over by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Arif Doctor, the bench urged the PWD to consider the possibility of using vacant land in Goregaon or any other available site. This suggestion comes in the light of the Chhattisgarh High Court being allocated nearly 100 acres for its complex, highlighting a stark contrast in space allocation.

Connectivity and Accessibility Concerns

The accessibility of the Goregaon site had previously been a point of contention, leading to its initial rejection. However, with the upcoming coastal road and metro network improvements, the court noted that these developments might enhance the site's connectivity, making it a viable option once more.

State's Position and Legal Proceedings

Advocate General Birendra Saraf mentioned that revisiting the Goregaon option might feel like a setback since significant progress had been made in securing the Bandra site. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that this could be reconsidered during the High Court's administrative meetings. The state also highlighted ongoing legal challenges, including 12 suits and 31 petitions related to the eviction process, complicating the clearance of the Bandra site.

Government's Commitment and Public Interest Litigation

Despite these challenges, the government reaffirmed its commitment to declaring the redevelopment of the Bandra site a 'vital project of public importance.' This declaration is expected to expedite the eviction and clearance processes after the election period. The High Court also addressed a public interest litigation brought by advocate Ahmad Abdi, criticizing the state for its slow progress in land allocation for the new court building.

Potential for Delays and Alternative Proposals

The court expressed concerns that if the current pace continues, the new building at Bandra might only be completed by 2030. The State also mentioned plans to relocate encroachers to transit tenements and address the presence of three religious structures on the site.

Conclusion

As discussions continue, the Bombay High Court remains in a state of flux regarding its future location, reflecting broader issues of urban planning and infrastructure development within Mumbai. The court is scheduled to revisit this matter in June, where further decisions might be taken.