Ensure Safe and Motorable Roads on NH-66, NH-275: Karnataka High Court Directs NHAI
Court asks authorities to take immediate action to maintain highways in coastal Karnataka following concerns over road safety and fatal accidents.
Bengaluru– The Karnataka High Court has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and other concerned authorities to take immediate and effective steps to ensure that National Highway-66, National Highway-275 (particularly the stretch between Mangalore and Udupi), and other major roads in coastal Karnataka are made safe, motorable, and maintained using scientific standards.
The directive came from a division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Poonacha, while disposing of a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Advocate Akash S.
Fatal Accidents Prompt Legal Action
The petitioner raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of key national highways in the region, citing potholes and poor maintenance as major safety hazards. The court was informed that a recent fatal accident had occurred due to potholes, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
After reviewing the petition, the bench observed:
“In view of the averments made in the petition, we direct the concerned respondents to examine the prayers of the petitioner and take such steps as it considers warrant.”
With this, the court disposed of the matter but left the responsibility with the authorities to act decisively.
Violation of Fundamental Rights Alleged
The PIL argued that the continued negligence in maintaining these roads amounts to a violation of fundamental rights under Articles 19(1)(d) (freedom of movement) and 21 (right to life) of the Constitution of India. It contended that citizens have a right to safe and scientifically maintained roads, and the lack of proper infrastructure is putting lives at risk.
Petition’s Key Demands
Among other things, the petition had urged the court to:
- Direct project concessionaires and contractors to carry out durable and scientific repairs of the main carriageways, service roads, culverts, medians, pedestrian crossings, and other road infrastructure.
- Set up a court-monitored mechanism for road safety implementation, including the identification and rectification of accident-prone zones and black spots.
- Ensure a transparent and accessible public grievance system for road users.
- Hold toll contractors, concessionaires, and officials accountable for failures, including recovery of damages and imposition of penalties when necessary.
Though the court did not issue specific directions on each prayer, its directive to the authorities to examine and take necessary steps signals that road safety and maintenance must be prioritized.
Broader Public Concern
The condition of roads along the coastal Karnataka belt, particularly on the Mangalore-Udupi corridor, has been a long-standing issue. Despite the collection of tolls, users have repeatedly raised complaints about potholes, waterlogging, and poor road quality — especially during the monsoon.
This latest intervention by the High Court is expected to put pressure on NHAI and other road authorities to accelerate repair and maintenance efforts in the region.
