7 January 2025
Mumbai: Former BJP corporator Makrand Narwekar has urged Minister of Ports Nitesh Rane to shift location of transport Marina after opposition from Colaba residents. Makarand has suggested Princess Dock, Ballard Pier as the new location instead of Gateway. He maintained that after Neelkamal crash, lack of infrastructure at Gateway of India is apparent, hence a need for Marina is most important.
A plan for transport Marina was mooted by Honourable Assembly Speaker and Colaba MLA, Rahul Narwekar. Colaba residents have written to Rahul Narwekar opposing this Marina at Gateway due to existing traffic. “Strong objection against the proposed jetty, which is intended to come up between Gateway of India and Radio club in Colaba,” read the letter by Clean Heritage Colaba Resident’s Association.
The letter added that existing tourist movement at Gateway leads to jammed roads and traffic. It also said that Marina can lead to loss of iconic view for Taj Hotel. Strand Marg Association, My Dream Colaba, Colaba ALM and Old Cuffe Parade Association have also opposed Marina at Gateway.
“While we are not opposed to decongesting plans for passenger jetties, it should be done at a location which is not already crowded. On weekends and holidays, we see that roads leading to Gateway are crowded. Adding a Marina will increase footfalls. It will also take away the view which one gets from Gateway at this point. Hence a relocation is expected,” said Bella Shah, a Colaba resident.
Makarand in a letter to Minister of Fisheries and Ports Development Nitesh Rane urged that Marina should be shifted to Princess Dock, in Ballard Pier. “Taking in view the opinion of residents I have suggested to have this Marina at Princess Dock. As cruise terminal exists there, there is movement of passengers. This would align with the existing infrastructure and provide essential facilities such as proper boarding, disembarking, and fueling stations for vessels. We are keen on having a Transport Marina in South Mumbai for passenger safety and increase in tourism,” Makarand said.
Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar today held a meeting with Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) officials to shift this project from Gateway and initiate the process of a Transport Marina at Princess Dock. "MMB Officials told in the meeting that the NOC of Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee is required for the Marina. It has been decided to hold the next meeting with heritage committee. In the same meeting, the decision on the shifting Marina to Process Dock will be taken after discussions," said Makarand Narwekar.