The Supreme Court has emphasised that the reclaimed land along Mumbai’s Coastal Road South should generally remain accessible to the public. This includes areas proposed for landscaping by Reliance Industries under a corporate social responsibility initiative. The court has prohibited any residential or commercial development on this land. These observations were made by Justices JK Maheshwari and Atul S Chandurkar while addressing a PIL filed by Jipnesh Narendra Jain.
The PIL contested the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Expression of Interest (EoI) for engaging private agencies in landscaping and maintaining the reclaimed coastal land. The court reiterated its earlier stance from September 30, 2022, which stated that the land should not be used for residential or commercial purposes now or in the future. The bench remarked, “Be that as it may, the subject area shall ordinarily remain open for the public, except to the extent any development or maintenance work in particular places is required.”
Public Access and Development Restrictions
The Dharmaveer Swarajyarakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Mumbai Coastal Road South is designated for development through corporate social responsibility initiatives. It is expected to remain open to the public, except in specific areas where additional development or maintenance might be necessary. The court’s previous order had already addressed concerns about residential or commercial use of this reclaimed land.
The September 30, 2022 order allowed certain development activities like landscaping of the seaside promenade and road medians as part of the coastal road project. However, it strictly prohibited any residential or commercial use of the reclaimed land, ensuring it remains open for public enjoyment.
Petition Against BMC’s EoI
The PIL challenged the BMC’s EoI dated December 19, 2024. This EoI was issued for appointing a “Volunteer Agency” to oversee development and long-term maintenance of landscaping, gardens, and promenades along Mumbai Coastal Road South. The petition sought to nullify any decision that would appoint Reliance Industries Limited or Reliance Foundation as this volunteer agency.
The court’s decision reinforces its commitment to keeping public spaces accessible while ensuring any necessary development aligns with public interest. This ruling highlights the importance of balancing urban development with preserving public access to reclaimed lands.
With inputs from PTI
