NHRC seeks ATR from NHAI on unsafe NH-326 stretch in Odisha

CUTTACK: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the National Highways Authority of India to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks over alleged safety lapses on National Highway 326 in Odisha’s Rayagada district.The Commission passed the order on April 24, 2026, after taking cognisance of a complaint filed by Jeypore based human rights activist Advocate Anup Kumar Patro. It has also asked NHAI to conduct an inquiry and furnish a detailed report within 15 days.According to the complaint, nearly 12 ghat stretches along the Rayagada section of NH-326—part of the Ranchi–Vijayawada corridor—lack safety fences or retaining walls, posing serious risks to commuters. The identified locations include Gumma, Kailashkota, Kaliapada, Phulkana, Pipiliguda, Durgapadhu, Dangar Tulsi and Palam Tulsi ghats, known for steep gradients, narrow roads and sharp bends.The petitioner alleged that the absence of protective barriers increases the likelihood of accidents and landslides, particularly in vulnerable pockets such as Lake Kanchimoi, Harshamayi and Kuleng Ghati. Emergency response services are also reportedly affected due to unsafe road conditions.Observing that the matter raises concerns of possible violation of the right to life under Article 21, the NHRC in the April 24 order said: “The Commission is of the considered view that the allegations levelled in the complaint are detrimental to the Human Rights of residents and commuters of the said region.”The Commission has forwarded the complaint to NHAI for necessary action. Further developments are awaited pending submission of the ATR.In the complaint, Patro further described NH-326 as a crucial lifeline for people in the undivided Koraput Scheduled District and urged immediate steps, including construction of safety fences across the identified ghat sections. He urged the Commission to direct the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the Odisha government to prioritize the construction of safety barriers along these critical stretches.