Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh High Court : Take steps for construction of ROB at Tutu-Majyath, Himachal HC directs state government
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has directed the state government to ensure Northern Railway proceeds with the construction of the Tutu-Majyath Road Over Bridge, citing public safety concerns.
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has directed the state government to take necessary steps to ensure that Northern Railway proceeds with the construction of the proposed Road Over Bridge (ROB) at Tutu-Majyath, terming the issue as genuine and one of pressing public importance.
A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Jiya Lal Bhardwaj observed that the state government must place the matter before the competent authority as a special case, clearly highlighting the hardships being faced by residents due to the absence of the ROB. The Bench said the bridge would not only resolve existing difficulties but would also serve as a crucial alternative route for the already congested areas of the city.
During the hearing, the court was informed that several educational institutions are located nearby, forcing schoolchildren to cross the railway tracks on a daily basis, thereby exposing them to serious safety risks. The Bench noted that frequent attempts by the public to cross the tracks could result in grave accidents if urgent steps are not taken.
The court passed the order while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) pertaining to the construction of the ROB at Ward No. 7, Majyath.
The Railways informed the court that while the construction must be carried out under its supervision, the entire cost would have to be borne by the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (HPPWD).
Earlier, the Shimla Smart City Mission had declined to undertake the project, citing a shortage of funds and the mandatory completion of pre-approved projects by March 31, 2026. The Mission also pointed out that the Government of India has not granted any extension to the Smart City scheme beyond March 31, 2025.
The Bench further observed that the Tutu-Majyath ambulance road cannot be completed without the ROB, adversely affecting emergency services and access. Directing the state government to impress upon Northern Railway to move forward with the project at its own expense, the court stressed that the competent authorities must be made fully aware of the urgent public interest and safety concerns involved.
