Orissa High Court Directs Urgent Road Repairs Ahead of Festive Season
Court Orders Immediate Action to Address Road Conditions in Cuttack City; Balijatra Festival Preparations Also Reviewed
In a significant directive aimed at improving urban infrastructure, the Orissa High Court has ordered the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) and other authorities to expedite road repairs across Cuttack City ahead of the upcoming festive season. The judgment was delivered by Justices S.K. Sahoo and V. Narasingh in response to concerns raised over the condition of roads in key areas of the city.
The court emphasized the importance of well-maintained roads, noting their critical role in facilitating economic growth, social development, and urban livability. A thorough inspection and survey of the roads revealed that out of approximately 3372 roads under CMC's jurisdiction, a significant number required urgent repairs. The court ordered immediate action, prioritizing roads in market areas, hospitals, educational institutions, accident-prone zones, and densely populated wards.
The CMC has been instructed to prepare ward-wise statements detailing the total road lengths, necessary repairs, and completion timelines. The repairs are to be conducted urgently, bypassing the tender process where necessary. Additionally, the court highlighted the need for proper drainage protocols to prevent future waterlogging and structural damage to adjacent buildings.
Addressing the ongoing Balijatra Festival preparations, the court granted permission for the partial use of the Upper Balijatra Ground by the District Administration, stressing adherence to previous observations for smooth event management. The court acknowledged the cultural significance of the Upper Balijatra Ground, while ensuring the safety and convenience of festival-goers through strategic planning and coordination among authorities.
The judgment further directed the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Division to undertake repairs on specific road stretches under their jurisdiction. The court expects compliance affidavits detailing the steps taken and progress made to be filed by November 27, 2025.
Overall, the Orissa High Court's decision underscores the need for a structured approach to urban infrastructure maintenance, ensuring the roads are encroachment-free and traffic congestion is minimized. The judgment serves as a reminder of the fundamental role infrastructure plays in enhancing the quality of life and supporting sustainable progress in urban areas.
Bottom Line:
Steps to ensure road repairs and maintenance in Cuttack City for upcoming festive season and beyond, prioritizing damaged roads in key areas while addressing issues of road height and encroachment.
Statutory provision(s): Urban Infrastructure : Road Repairs
