Central Government Notifies Road Over Bridge as Special Railway Project in Andhra Pradesh

The Ministry of Railways (South Central Railway) issued a Notification, S.O. 4161(E), on September 10, 2024, which was subsequently published in the Official Gazette on September 23, 2024. This instrument formally designates the construction of a Road Over Bridge (ROB) in lieu of Level Crossing No. 455, situated at Km. 693/12-14 between Gullipadu and Narsipatnam Road stations, as a Special Railway Project. The notification was issued by the Central Government in exercise of the powers conferred by clause (37A) of Section 2 of the Railways Act, 1989. The primary purpose of this declaration is to facilitate the acquisition of land necessary for the project in the State of Andhra Pradesh, specifically within the District of Anakapalli, thereby contributing to national infrastructure development for a public purpose. The notification came into force with effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette. This designation is crucial for streamlining the land acquisition process required for the timely execution of the infrastructure project, impacting landowners and local communities in the specified district, while enhancing the railway network's efficiency and safety.

The legislative intent behind this notification is to expedite the development of critical national infrastructure by leveraging specific provisions within the Railways Act, 1989, that allow for the declaration of certain projects as "Special Railway Projects." This mechanism addresses potential delays and complexities typically associated with land acquisition for large-scale public works. The policy rationale underscores the Central Government's commitment to providing robust national infrastructure, particularly in the railway sector, which is vital for economic growth and public safety. By classifying the Road Over Bridge project as a Special Railway Project, the notification aims to overcome statutory gaps or limitations that might otherwise impede the swift acquisition of land. The earlier legal position under the general land acquisition framework could be more protracted, and this specific declaration under the Railways Act provides a more direct pathway. The legislation provided: “Construction of Road Over Bridge in lieu of Level Crossing No. 455 at Km. 693/12-14 between Gullipadu - Narsipatnam Road stations as a Special Railway Project for acquisition of land in the State of Andhra Pradesh in the District of Anakapalli for providing National Infrastructure for a public purpose.” This declaration introduces an obligation on the part of relevant authorities to proceed with land acquisition under the special provisions applicable to such projects, ensuring that the necessary land is secured for the construction of the Road Over Bridge, which will improve traffic flow and eliminate potential hazards at the level crossing.

Keywords: Railways Act, Special Railway Project, Road Over Bridge, Land Acquisition, Andhra Pradesh, Anakapalli, Ministry of Railways, National Infrastructure, Level Crossing

Geo Tags: India, Andhra Pradesh
District: Anakapalli