Archive · 10 Oct 2026
Bombay High Court Examines Marine Drive Gymkhanas’ Light Pollution
A Mumbai resident says bright lights at some Marine Drive gymkhanas shine into nearby homes.
He says the lights disturb sleep and could affect people, trees and animals.
His petition also says bright lights can make it harder for motorists to see.
He has complained to authorities about the issue for years.
The petition asks for rules about how bright lights can be and how they should be pointed.
It also asks for limits on strong lighting after 10 pm.
The Bombay High Court has asked the state government to respond.
The case is scheduled for a hearing on November 20.
The court has not yet decided whether the allegations are true.
A Mumbai resident has petitioned the Bombay High Court over alleged excessive lighting at Marine Drive gymkhanas.
The petition says floodlights and illuminated billboards disturb residents and may harm health, trees and wildlife.
It cites light readings of up to 84,800 lux near Wilson Gymkhana, compared with about 2,100 lux described as ambient levels along Marine Drive.
The petition traces complaints to 2016 and cites notices and official records from 2016 and 2017.
The court issued notice to the state government and scheduled a hearing for November 20; the allegations have not been adjudicated.
- Who
- South Mumbai resident Nilesh Desai filed the petition; the Bombay High Court issued notice to the state government.
- What
- A petition alleges that powerful gymkhana lights and illuminated billboards cause excessive light pollution and seeks regulations.
- When
- The report is dated October 9, 2026; the hearing is scheduled for November 20.
- Where
- Marine Drive, Mumbai; the petition also seeks regulations in Mumbai and Thane.
- Why
- The petitioner says the lighting disturbs residents and may affect health, sleep, trees, wildlife and road visibility.
- Petitioner
- Nilesh Desai, a South Mumbai resident, IT professional and astrophotographer
- Court
- Bombay High Court
- Judges named
- Chief Justice MC Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna
- Next hearing
- November 20
- Light reading cited
- Up to 84,800 lux near Wilson Gymkhana; about 2,100 lux is described as ambient along Marine Drive
- Relief sought
- Lighting rules, permissible light levels, downward-shielded fixtures, possible dark-sky-friendly zones, and restrictions on high-intensity lighting after 10 pm
- Status
- The court issued notice to the state government; the allegations are yet to be adjudicated.