The Orissa High Court has expressed strong concern over the continuing poor condition of roads and waterlogging in Cuttack, observing that repeated directions and compliance affidavits have failed to bring visible improvement on the ground.
A Division Bench of Justice K.R. Mohapatra and Justice V. Narasingh said the condition of roads had remained before the Court since 2020 and described the repeated inaction as an example of “administrative apathy.”
The matter arises from a suo motu public interest litigation concerning condition of roads and waterlogging in Cuttack. The Court noted that despite repeated orders directing repair of damaged roads and measures to address waterlogging, the problems had continued.
Earlier orders recorded repeated assurances from the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) regarding the repair of damaged roads. In December 2024, the CMC reported that 64 out of 105 road and drain works had been completed. However, in August 2025, the Court noted that several roads, including recently repaired stretches, had quickly deteriorated, suggesting shoddy work and lack of supervision. The Court also observed that “there does not seem to be any accountability.
The Bench said compliance affidavits had not translated into motorable roads and described the recurring cycle of potholes, repairs and monsoon damage as continuing year after year.
The Court observed:
“A road is not mere tar and stone. It’s a lifeline under Article 19(1)(d) read with Article 21 of the Constitution.”
The Additional Chief Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department, assured the Court that a comprehensive plan was being prepared for construction, maintenance and repair of roads. She also informed the Bench that a Detailed Project Report was being prepared to improve storm-water drainage and address waterlogging in Cuttack.
The Court also noted that the CMC claimed 70% of arterial roads were in good condition, but said it was difficult to accept the submission in view of concerns raised by the Advocates’ Committees.
The Court directed the Special Secretary of the Works Department to file an affidavit detailing the steps taken for road repairs in Cuttack and the timeline for completing the work. The Advocates’ Committees were also directed to visit their respective wards and submit comprehensive reports on the condition of arterial roads under the CMC.
The matter was directed to be listed on September 10, 2026, for further consideration.
Case Title: Registrar (Judicial) v. State of Odisha and Others
Case Number: SUO MOTU W.P.(C) PIL No. 2140 of 2020
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