National Highway: Disciplinary action for non-compliance; removal of advertisements, flexes

Kota: In the wake of rising fatalities due to road accidents on national highways, the government has directed local bodies to strictly enforce highway rules. It has also decided to take tough action against those who violate the regulations.

The Supreme Court recently ordered that local administrations and urban local bodies must not issue licenses or No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for building construction or other activities within the road margin, nor should they permit any activity that obstructs vehicular traffic. Following this, on May 25, the Union Ministry of Road Transport stated that no residential construction is allowed within 40 metres, and no commercial construction within 75 metres from the centre line of a national highway. Furthermore, licenses should not be issued for commercial activities, and if previously issued, they must not be renewed. The ministry stated that if building permits, NOCs, trade licenses, or renewals are found to have been issued in violation of these rules, disciplinary action will be taken against the concerned officials.

Menace of advertisement boards and flexes

Licenses must not be issued to install cutouts and advertisement boards that distract drivers. If already permitted, they must be removed immediately. Gram panchayats must construct bus stops to prevent buses from halting directly on the road. The district administration stated that permission, renewal, or NOCs must not be granted for roadside kiosks or any trading on road margins and footpaths.

Information on accident zones

The Road Authority is identifying accident-prone zones along highways. Information regarding this is likely to be shared with citizens during Gram Sabhas to seek their feedback.

Applicable to district roads as well

A setback distance must be maintained from the centre of the road: 25 m to 50 m for major district roads, 12.50 m to 17.50 m for other district roads, and 12.50 m to 15 m for rural roads. For areas within 15 km of city municipality limits, a setback of 6 m from the land boundary is required, while for areas beyond 15 km, a 12 m setback must be maintained. No license can be issued for the concerned roads without the permission and NOC of the authority.

Proper implementation

We are taking action against illegal buildings, advertisement cutouts, and bus stops located directly on the road. Action will also be taken against vendors conducting trade on footpaths. Strict orders have already been issued to local administrations. - Swaroopa T. K., Udupi Deputy Commissioner