HC directs govt and NHAI to ensure road projects finish on time

Raipur: The Chhattisgarh high court has directed the state govt and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to ensure the timely completion of ongoing road construction and maintenance works across the state. While monitoring a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding the condition of roads, the court on March 19 emphasised the need for continuous oversight to ensure commuter safety.A personal affidavit filed by the deputy secretary, Department of Public Works, on March 18, 2026, informed the court that Rs 40.79 crore has been allocated for the strengthening and repair of the Pendridih Chowk to Nehru Chowk road in Bilaspur. The state also provided updates on several other key stretches, such as Seepat to Baloda. Bids have been opened and a private agency has been declared the lowest bidder. A work order will be issued following state committee approval. Similarly, sanctions are in place for the Mopka to Sendri Bypass Project, and the tender process is expected to begin shortly.In Bilaspur Municipal limits, repairs on the Tarbahar Chowk to Shiv Talkies stretch are complete. Works on roads from Mangla Chowk to Deendayal Upadhyay Nagar, and Ashok Nagar to Birkona, are being managed by the Bilaspur Municipal Corporation.The NHAI submitted that work has resumed on a 2 km hindered stretch of NH-130 in Jurali village, Korba district. The delay, caused by land disputes, was resolved through arbitration in Aug 2025.Additionally, the NHAI has awarded a Rs 22.48 crore contract for the rectification and strengthening of the 8.55 km Katghora to Gopalpur section of NH-149B. The authority assured the court that all Project Implementation Units (PIUs) are taking steps to reduce accidents and safeguard commuters.A division bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal noted that while steps have been taken to resume construction, strict monitoring is essential.The court has directed the secretary, Department of Public Works, and the concerned NHAI authorities to file fresh affidavits detailing further developments. The matter is listed for further hearing on May 5, 2026.