The Supreme Court has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to take urgent and effective steps to eliminate unauthorised occupation of national highways, warning that such encroachments pose safety risks and obstruct smooth traffic flow.
A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih ordered the formation of surveillance teams, which may include personnel from the state police or other appropriate forces, to routinely monitor national highways and remove any encroachments.
Promotion of ‘Rajmargyatra’
The Court also instructed the Union government to actively promote the ‘Rajmargyatra’ mobile application, which allows highway users to register complaints and access key travel information. The app’s availability and features must be clearly displayed at toll plazas, rest stops, and food courts.
Standard Operating Procedure Required
Highlighting the need for a uniform approach, the Court directed NHAI and the Centre to develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide inspections and data collection related to unauthorised highway usage. This SOP must ensure accountability and consistent enforcement across all states.
Compliance Report
The Union of India has been instructed to file a compliance affidavit within three months, detailing actions taken, including the formation of monitoring teams and implementation of SOPs.
PIL Filed for Enforcement of Highway Laws
These directives were issued during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by petitioner Gyan Prakash, who sought strict enforcement of the Control of National Highways (Land and Traffic) Act, 2002. Advocate Swati Ghildiyal was appointed amicus curiae to assist the Court.
Next Hearing
The Supreme Court has listed the matter for further compliance review on September 15, 2025, urging all concerned authorities to act swiftly to safeguard public infrastructure and ensure lawful use of national highways.
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