The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered all relevant authorities to resolve any obstacles delaying important national highway projects in Punjab within two weeks. This includes issues related to land possession, pending legal notifications and arbitration cases. The court aims to prevent unnecessary interference and ensure smooth progress for projects managed by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

The High Court has directed courts handling land acquisition cases to ensure that possession of the land is free from any legal or physical obstacles by issuing necessary orders. It has also instructed the police to take immediate action against any unlawful disruptions affecting NHAI’s possession. This includes deploying armed personnel and setting up police pickets at project sites if needed. The Chief Secretary and the DGP of Punjab have been instructed to take action against any officers or officials who neglect their duties in the land acquisition process. District administrations and police commissioners have also been directed to provide necessary support to the executing agencies. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for March 21.

A division bench of Justice Sureshwar Thakur and Justice Kuldeep Tiwari issued these orders while reviewing a plea from NHAI about challenges in acquiring land for its projects in Punjab. The NHAI informed the court that as of August 30, 2024, 268.52 km of land across 15 projects was still awaiting possession. By November 30, 2024, this had been reduced to 113.47 km, as per their commitment to the High Court. However, after that, progress slowed down, and 99.24 km is still pending for possession. Out of this, 78.42 km is free from any legal or financial issues and can be handed over immediately, while steps are being taken to clear the remaining portion.

Senior advocate Chetan Mittal, representing NHAI, informed the court that landowners have reclaimed 5.44 km of land. This includes areas in Sangrur, Malerkotla, and Tarn Taran, affecting the Delhi-Katra expressway project. He also pointed out that a villager in Tarn Taran is blocking the construction of a key bridge. Despite multiple requests, the police have not taken any action to protect the site. The court was shown photographs where miscreants were attempting to seize the land while the police were present but did not intervene.