Maharashtra Govt Orders Removal Of Highway Encroachments Within 60 Days

The Maharashtra government has directed all municipal corporations, municipal councils, and nagar panchayats to remove unauthorised structures and encroachments along national highways within 60 days. This move follows the Supreme Court's directions on April 13, 2026, in the Phalodi Accident versus National Highways Authority of India case.

The Urban Development Department issued a circular on Monday, calling for strict compliance with the Supreme Court's directions. The circular prohibits the construction or operation of new dhabas, eateries, or commercial structures within the Right of Way (ROW) of national highways with immediate effect.

District Magistrates have been tasked with enforcing the removal or demolition of all new and existing unauthorised structures within 60 days. The government has also tightened the rules governing permissions for commercial establishments located near highways. No department, authority, or local body will be permitted to grant or renew a licence, No Objection Certificate (NOC), or trade approval for sites falling within highway safety zones without prior clearance from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) or the Public Works Department (PWD).

Existing licences for such establishments will have to be reviewed within 30 days. The circular further mandates the formation of a District Highway Safety Task Force in every district through which a national highway passes. The task force will include officials from the district administration, police, NHAI, or the concerned land-owning agency, PWD, and local bodies.

The District Collector and the Commissioner of Police or Superintendent of Police will have joint responsibility for ensuring timely removal of encroachments. The task forces will also be required to conduct review meetings every fortnight and maintain records of their proceedings.

The Supreme Court directions also require state governments to issue notifications within 60 days restricting changes in land use within 40 metres for residential purposes and 75 metres for commercial purposes from the midpoint of a national highway. This move aims to improve highway safety and reduce accidents.

The Maharashtra government's decision to remove highway encroachments is a significant step towards ensuring public safety. The state government's efforts to comply with the Supreme Court's directions demonstrate its commitment to addressing the issue of unauthorised structures along national highways.

The removal of encroachments will not only improve highway safety but also reduce congestion and improve traffic flow. The government's decision to prohibit new commercial structures within the ROW of national highways will also help to prevent accidents and ensure a safer environment for road users.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra government's move to remove highway encroachments within 60 days is a welcome step towards improving public safety. The government's efforts to comply with the Supreme Court's directions and tighten rules governing permissions for commercial establishments near highways demonstrate its commitment to addressing the issue of unauthorised structures along national highways.

The success of this initiative will depend on the effective implementation of the Supreme Court's directions and the cooperation of local bodies, district administrations, and the public. The Maharashtra government's decision to remove highway encroachments is a significant step towards creating a safer and more efficient transportation system in the state.

The government's move is also expected to have a positive impact on the state's economy, as improved highway safety and reduced congestion will lead to increased economic activity and growth. The removal of encroachments will also help to reduce the risk of accidents and improve the overall quality of life for road users in Maharashtra.

Overall, the Maharashtra government's decision to remove highway encroachments within 60 days is a significant step towards improving public safety and creating a safer and more efficient transportation system in the state. The government's efforts to comply with the Supreme Court's directions and tighten rules governing permissions for commercial establishments near highways demonstrate its commitment to addressing the issue of unauthorised structures along national highways.