Central Government Notifies Land Acquisition for Yerpedu-Pudi Railway Bypass in Tirupati

The Ministry of Railways (South Central Railway) issued Notification S.O. 3791(E) on August 1, 2025, which was subsequently published in the Official Gazette on August 19, 2025. This notification, a delegated legislative instrument, formally declares the Central Government's intention to acquire land for a significant public infrastructure project. The primary reason for its issuance is to facilitate the execution of a Special Railway Project, specifically a bypass line spanning 25.36 kilometers between Yerpedu and Pudi stations. This crucial development is situated within the Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh and aims to enhance both passenger and freight facilities in the region. The notification outlines the legal framework for this acquisition, specifying that it is undertaken in exercise of powers conferred by sub-section (I) of section 20A of the Railway Act, 1989 (24 of 1989). It details the process for interested persons to raise objections to the proposed land acquisition, requiring them to do so within a period of thirty days from the date of the notification's publication. Objections must be submitted in writing to the Competent Authority, identified as the Revenue Divisional Officer (land acquisition), Srikalahasti, Tirupati district, and must clearly state the grounds for objection. The Competent Authority is mandated to provide an opportunity for the objector to be heard, either in person or through a legal practitioner, and will conduct further inquiry as deemed necessary before issuing a final order to either allow or disallow the objections. The land plans and other pertinent details regarding the land covered by this notification are available for inspection at the office of the Competent Authority.

The legislative intent behind this notification is to enable the timely and lawful acquisition of land essential for public infrastructure development, specifically for the expansion and improvement of the national railway network. The policy rationale underscores the government's commitment to enhancing connectivity and transportation efficiency, which are vital for economic growth and public convenience. Operating within the existing statutory framework of the Railway Act, 1989, the notification addresses the practical necessity of acquiring private land for public projects while also establishing a clear mechanism for addressing potential grievances from affected landowners. The legislation provided: “...the Central Government, after being satisfied that for the public purpose, the land, the brief description of which is given in the Schedule annexed hereto, is required for the purpose of execution of the Special Railway Project namely, Bypass line between Yerpedu-Pudi stations (25.36 Km.), in Tirupati district in the state of Andhra Pradesh, hereby declares its intention to acquire such land...” This provision highlights the foundational principle of public purpose guiding the acquisition. The notification introduces a structured process for objections, ensuring that individuals whose land is earmarked for acquisition have a statutory right to be heard before a final decision is made. This mechanism serves as an enforcement procedure, ensuring transparency and due process in land acquisition proceedings. The finality of the order issued by the Competent Authority under sub-section (II) of section 20D of the said Act provides a definitive resolution to any objections raised, thereby streamlining the project's progression while upholding legal safeguards.

Keywords: Land acquisition, Railway Act 1989, Special Railway Project, Yerpedu-Pudi bypass, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, Ministry of Railways, Notification, Public purpose, Infrastructure development
Geo Tags: India, Andhra Pradesh
District: Tirupati