The Rajasthan High Court disposed of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking direction to the respondent authorities to take immediate action for regular upkeep and maintenance of Rohit-Jalore section of road comprising SH-64 and SH-16.
The PIL filed by Jeep Car Taxi Operators Union further sought direction to the respondent to take appropriate action against the contractor for nonfulfilling his duties as per the concession agreement and causing public danger.
Taking note of the poor condition of road in question, the High Court has issued certain directions from time to time for proper upkeep and maintenance of the road in question, however till date, no effective steps have been taken by the respondents in this regard.
Assessing the situation from every angle, the High Court vide orders dated 15.5.2023 and 24.5.2023, has directed for personal presence of the Principal Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD), Jaipur along with the Chief Engineer, National Highway (NH) PWD, Jaipur.
On the last date, the Chief Engineer, National Highway (NH) PWD, Jaipur has informed the high Court that clause of risk and cost has already been proceeded against the private contractor – respondent No.5, who has failed to maintain the road in question as per the terms of the contract.
On May 29, the Principal Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD), Jaipur, present in person, has assured the Division Bench of Justice Vijay Bishnoi and Justice Yogendra Kumar Purohit that in the month of June, a new tender will be invited for upkeep and maintenance of the road in question and, thereafter, the contract will be given to the eligible party and the required work of the road in question will be completed by December, 2023 or in the month of January, 2024.
Taking into consideration the assurance given by the Principal Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD), Jaipur, the petition is disposed of by the High Court with an expectation that the upkeep and maintenance of the road in question will be completed not later than month of January, 2024.
“It is made clear that in case, the assurance given by the Principal Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD), Jaipur is not fulfilled, the petitioner-union is free to avail appropriate remedy available to it under the law.
“Needless to say that the toll will not be charged on the road in question till completion upkeep and maintenance of the road in question”, the order read.