Non-compliant Schools Face Court Scrutiny as Traffic Chaos Persists
In a significant move to address the persistent issue of traffic congestion around schools in Lucknow, the Allahabad High Court has issued directives mandating several educational institutions to actively engage in resolving the problem. The court's intervention comes in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Gomti River Bank Residents against the State of Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the severe traffic disruptions caused around school premises.
The division bench, comprising Justices Alok Mathur and Brij Raj Singh, underscored the importance of adherence to previous court orders aimed at alleviating traffic woes. Despite earlier directives, certain schools have reportedly failed to take necessary measures, exacerbating the situation. Consequently, the court has directed the inclusion of these schools as respondents in the ongoing proceedings.
The institutions named include La Martinière Girls' College, Loreto Convent, and various branches of City Montessori School, along with Seth M.R. Jaipuria School, all located in Lucknow. The court has instructed the principals or senior administrative officers of these schools to appear before it on January 19, 2026, to present the actions taken and propose further solutions to mitigate traffic congestion.
The judgment follows a comprehensive report prepared by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which reviewed the traffic conditions and provided recommendations. Despite efforts by the State Government and the learned Amicus Curiae, significant improvements remain elusive, prompting the court's decisive action.
Justice Mathur emphasized that if the institutions fail to voluntarily implement effective traffic management strategies, the court will not hesitate to enforce mandatory directives as recommended by state authorities and the Amicus Curiae. The objective is to ensure a safe and efficient flow of traffic, particularly during school hours, thereby safeguarding the interests of students and the general public.
The court's proactive stance reflects its commitment to resolving urban infrastructure challenges through judicial oversight, ensuring compliance with legal standards for the greater public good.
Bottom Line:
Public Interest Litigation - Traffic congestion around schools - Directions issued to educational institutions to address and improve traffic situation around their premises, with compliance to previous orders of the court.
Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation, Court Orders, Compliance Directives, National Disaster Management Authority Recommendations.
Gomti River Bank Residents v. State of U.P., (Allahabad)(Lucknow)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2834435
