- (1.) Leave granted.
(2.) The interim order of the Bombay High court in these cases are set aside. The containers are lying in the port area for a very long time. In some cases, it has been stated that the containers are lying for as many as four years. It has further been stated that the consignees are untraceable. They are not showing any interest in clearance of the goods. The customs authorities have also not taken any step in this matter. It has further been stated that part authorities are suffering because the port area is being occupied by these containers indefinitely.
(3.) In the interest of justice, we direct that the goods may be sold by the port authority by public auction or by private treaty if better price is fetched a by that method. If the goods are sold, purchasers must clear the goods within a fortnight of completion of the sale. If the purchasers do not clear the goods within the period of a fortnight after sale, the Port authority will be entitled to dispose of the goods as it thinks fit.;