In a significant move to address road safety concerns, the Karnataka High Court on Friday ordered the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and other authorities to take immediate steps to ensure safe and properly maintained roads on National Highway-66 and National Highway-275, particularly the stretch connecting Mangalore and Udupi. The court’s directive comes after repeated complaints and a tragic accident linked to potholes on the highway.
Background
The petition, filed by Advocate Akash S, highlighted the deteriorating condition of major highways along coastal Karnataka. According to the petitioner, the neglect of road maintenance by project concessionaires and authorities not only endangered daily commuters but also infringed upon citizens’ fundamental rights under Articles 19(1)(d) and 21 of the Constitution.
The plea urged the court to ensure that highways are repaired scientifically, including proper maintenance of carriageways, service roads, medians, pedestrian crossings, and culverts. It also requested a court-monitored system to identify black spots, monitor accident-prone areas, and hold officials accountable for lapses.
Court’s Observations
The division bench, comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Poonacha, carefully reviewed the petitioner’s submissions and the representations made by the respondents, including NHAI. The bench noted the urgency of the matter and emphasized public safety.
“The bench observed, ‘In view of the averments made in the petitioner, we direct the concerned respondents to examine the prayers of the petitioner and take such steps as it considers warrant,’” the court stated, making it clear that authorities must act without delay to prevent further accidents.
During the hearing, Advocate Akhileshwari represented the petitioner, while Deputy Solicitor General Shanthi Bhushan H appeared for the Union of India and Niloufer Akbar represented other respondents. The discussions centered on both immediate remedial actions and long-term scientific maintenance measures.
Decision
After considering the arguments and the urgent public safety concerns, the Karnataka High Court disposed of the petition, directing NHAI and other respondents to implement remedial measures promptly. The court did not specify a rigid timeline but made it clear that ensuring motorable, safe, and scientifically maintained roads on the concerned highways is now a binding responsibility of the authorities.
The order is expected to trigger immediate inspections and repairs along NH-66 and NH-275, directly affecting the daily commute of thousands of residents between Mangalore and Udupi.
Case: Akash S AND Union of India & Others, WP 28122/2025
