Six-Month Deadline Set for State Government Following Railway NOC Approval
In a significant development for the residents and tourists of Ranchi, the Jharkhand High Court has directed the State Government to undertake urgent road widening and strengthening works for the road connecting Jonha Waterfall to Ranchi. This directive comes after a suo motu Public Interest Litigation was initiated by the court following a letter from Dr. Devendra Mahato highlighting the deplorable condition of the road, which serves as a vital lifeline for 15 villages and a population of approximately 20,000.
The court has mandated the conversion of the existing 5-meter wide kutcha road into an 8-meter wide metal-paved road, providing a timeline of six months for completion. The project had previously stalled due to the lack of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Railway authorities, which has now been issued. The NOC, dated 01.07.2026, comes with specific conditions to ensure the safeguarding of Railway interests, including operational and safety measures.
The Secretary of the Rural Works Department, Government of Jharkhand, has been made personally responsible for the timely commencement and completion of the road works. The court's decision underscores the necessity of the road improvements, noting that its current state adversely affects the daily activities of villagers and impedes tourism to the scenic Jonha Waterfall.
During the hearings, the Advocate General of Jharkhand assured the court of the State Government's willingness to expedite the road work, now possible with the Railway's approval. The High Court's directive emphasizes no further delays and requires a compliance report to be submitted by 18.01.2027, with a subsequent review scheduled for 21.01.2027.
The judgment has been widely appreciated for its fair approach in resolving a longstanding issue affecting residents and tourists, and it disposes of the PIL without any order for costs, ensuring focus remains on the completion of the vital infrastructure project.
Bottom line:-
Suo Motu Public Interest Litigation - Direction to State Government to undertake road widening and strengthening works for the benefit of villagers and tourists - No Objection Certificate (NOC) obtained from Railway authorities - Timeline of six months provided to complete the works.
Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation, No Objection Certificate conditions, Road widening and strengthening directives.
Court on its Own Motion v. State of Jharkhand, (Jharkhand)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2938269
