Provision of large area impossible for new HC complex in space-starved city: Government to court

The state government on Tuesday told the Bombay High Court that it wouldn't be possible to provide a huge area for the new HC complex, proposed to be built in Bandra, but assured that the facilities provided will be world-class.

The proposed court complex in Bandra was to be built on the basis of the Lucknow High Court, which is spread across acres of land. The state explained that it cannot give a huge land area for the new complex, similar to Lucknow High Court, as Mumbai is facing a space crisis.

"You cannot compare apples with oranges," said advocate general Rohit Dev. He, however, added that the state would provide world-class facilities for the new HC structure, which will be shifted from Fort to Bandra.

He said that the state has sanctioned Rs178 crore for the proposed complex. The government also mentioned the various facilities it would be providing in the new complex, which it claims will be on par with international standards.

The new complex will have various zones. It will house 55 judges' chambers and 465 rooms for advocates. It will have a separate complex for litigants. There are also plans to have ATMs, banks, cafeterias and railway booking services among other things on the premises.

The next hearing on the matter will be held on August 9.