Moreover, the decision to demolish and re-build the bridge was taken after a report from the expert committee, which stated chances of a mishap that could cause loss of human life and affect train services.
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday refused to stay the demolition of the 130-year-old Carnac Bunder bridge, saying human life is more important than inconvenience caused to citizens caused by development work.
A division bench of Justice Naresh Patil and Justice GS Kulkarni was hearing a public interest litigation filed by activist Kamlakar Shenoy seeking to stop the demolition of the Carnac Bunder Bridge. The PIL states there is no alternate route available for citizens to cross from West to East side of Masjid Bunder. The HC asked the Central Railway and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to place on record the expert committee reports on the same.
Advocate Suresh Kumar, appearing for the Railways, informed the court that a foot-over bridge, which is around 130 metres away from the Carnac Bunder Bridge, can be used by the residents. Moreover, the decision to demolish and re-build the bridge was taken after a report from the expert committee, which stated chances of a mishap that could cause loss of human life and affect train services.
Though the HC agreed to the stance of the Railways, it asked them to place on record the expert committee report, as Shenoy's counsel had claimed that a demand to make the same available to him under the Right to Information Act, was denied.
At present, only light motor vehicles are allowed to ply on the bridge. The corporation also informed the court that work on Hancock Bridge has commenced already and will be completed as per schedule.
THE PIL
A PIL filed by activist Kamlakar Shenoy states there is no alternate route available for citizens to cross from West to East side of Masjid Bunder. The HC asked the Central Railway and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to place on record the expert committee reports on the same.
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