The Himachal Pradesh High Court has recently issued directives to the Advocate General of the state, calling for a comprehensive status report detailing the measures taken to rectify the damage inflicted upon State Highways. This damage was a consequence of landslides triggered by incessant rains earlier in the year. The court's instructions materialized during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), which focused on the detrimental effects of unplanned excavation and construction in the state.
The bench, comprising Chief Justice M S Ramachandra Rao and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua, underscored the urgency of addressing the ramifications of the natural disasters that had befallen the region. The court's attention was drawn to a status report from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which detailed ongoing efforts and recognized the commendable work of the Expert Committee. This committee has been actively advising Executing Agencies on the necessary remedial actions to counteract the impact of the landslides.
Expressing optimism about the expeditious repair of the affected National Highways, the court documented, "We hope and trust that the process continues, and as speedily as possible, the repair work is done to ensure the safety of the persons traveling on the National Highways in question." This acknowledgment of progress, however, was accompanied by a broader concern for the overall infrastructure, prompting the court to extend its directives. The Advocate General was specifically tasked with submitting a detailed status report not only on repairs to State Highways but also on sections of National Highways managed by the Public Works Department (PWD).
The court's proactive stance had roots in the proceedings from October 13, 2023, where Mr. K.D. Shreedhar, representing NHAI, assured the court that the Expert Committee was diligently formulating recommendations based on their extensive site visits. In response to this assurance, the court directed NHAI to furnish a comprehensive status report detailing the interim actions taken to rectify damages caused by landslides.
The essence of the court's directives lies in the recognition of the immediate need to address the infrastructural challenges posed by the natural calamities. The incessant rains and resultant landslides have wreaked havoc on the State Highways, creating a pressing need for swift and effective remedial actions. The court's acknowledgment of NHAI's efforts on National Highways underscores the importance of collaborative efforts and expertise in mitigating the impact of such disasters.
The court's optimism about the ongoing repair work on National Highways is tempered by a pragmatic concern for the broader scope of infrastructure managed by the PWD. By directing the Advocate General to submit a detailed status report on the repairs to State Highways and relevant portions of National Highways, the court is ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to the situation. This reflects a commitment to addressing the full spectrum of challenges posed by the natural disasters, emphasizing the importance of thorough and effective remediation.
In conclusion, the Himachal Pradesh High Court's directives highlight a proactive and comprehensive approach to address the aftermath of landslides and ensure the safety and functionality of crucial transportation infrastructure. The court's recognition of the ongoing efforts by NHAI and the Expert Committee is balanced by a broader concern for the entire network of State Highways and National Highways managed by the PWD. The court's directives serve as a testament to the need for swift, collaborative, and thorough action to overcome the challenges posed by natural disasters and safeguard the well-being of the public.
TAGS: Advocate General Status report State Highways Landslides Incessant rains
