Central Government Designates Competent Authorities for Railway Land Acquisition in Andhra Pradesh

The Ministry of Railways (South Central Railway) issued Notification S.O. 1069(E) on February 28, 2025, which was subsequently published in the Official Gazette on March 1, 2025. This notification, a form of delegated legislation, formally designated specific officers to act as Competent Authorities for land acquisition related to special railway projects. The issuance of this notification stemmed from the need to operationalize provisions of the Railways Act, 1989, by empowering local administrative officials to oversee the acquisition of land essential for critical infrastructure development. It came into force immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette.

Under the authority granted by clause (7A) of Section 2 of the Railways Act, 1989, the Central Government authorized designated officers to perform the functions of the Competent Authority for Land Acquisition. This authorization specifically applies to the execution, maintenance, management, and operation of identified Special Railway Projects. The notification detailed that for the construction of a Road Over Bridge (ROB) in lieu of Level Crossing No. 388 at km. 563/24-26 near Chagallu Station yard in Andhra Pradesh, the Revenue Divisional Officer, Kovvur, was designated as the Competent Authority. Similarly, for the construction of a Road Over Bridge in lieu of Level Crossing No. 404 at Km. 589/12-14 between Kadiyam and Dwarapudi Stations, also in Andhra Pradesh, the Revenue Divisional Officer, Rajamahendravaram, was authorized. These officers are now legally empowered to conduct the necessary land acquisition proceedings for these projects within their respective jurisdictions.

The legislative intent behind this notification is to facilitate and expedite the land acquisition process for crucial railway infrastructure projects, thereby enhancing connectivity and safety. Road Over Bridges are vital for replacing existing level crossings, which often pose safety hazards and cause traffic congestion. By designating specific local authorities, the Central Government aims to streamline the administrative procedures involved in acquiring land, ensuring that these projects can proceed without undue delay. The earlier legal position under the Railways Act, 1989, provided the framework for such acquisitions, and this notification fills the operational gap by identifying the precise authorities responsible at the local level. The legislation provided: “In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (7A) of Section 2 of the Railways Act, 1989 the Central Government hereby authorizes the officer mentioned in the column (5) of the Table below to perform the functions of the Competent Authority for Land Acquisition in respect of the Special Railway Project as mentioned in column (2) of the Table for execution, maintenance, management and operation in the state mentioned in column (3) of the said table with effect from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette.” This measure ensures that the legal process for land acquisition, which involves fair compensation and due process for affected landowners, is carried out by clearly identified and accountable officials.

The policy rationale underscores the government's commitment to modernizing railway infrastructure and improving public safety. By replacing level crossings with Road Over Bridges, the risk of accidents is significantly reduced, and the smooth flow of both rail and road traffic is ensured. The designation of Revenue Divisional Officers as Competent Authorities for Land Acquisition (an official empowered to conduct the legal process of acquiring private land for public purposes) is a practical step to decentralize and expedite the acquisition process, leveraging existing administrative structures. This approach aims to address potential delays and issues that might arise in large-scale infrastructure projects, ensuring timely completion and delivery of public utilities. The notification does not introduce new rights or obligations but rather operationalizes existing statutory provisions, making the land acquisition process more efficient and transparent for all stakeholders involved.

Keywords: Railway land acquisition, Road Over Bridge, Railways Act 1989, Competent Authority, Ministry of Railways, Andhra Pradesh, East Godavari, Kovvur, Rajamahendravaram Geo Tags: India, Andhra Pradesh District: East Godavari