In exercise of powers conferred by clause a of section 3 of the National Highways Act, 1956 48 of 1956

## Policy Analysis Report: Land Acquisition for NH-326 Reconstruction in Odisha **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways regarding land acquisition for the reconstruction of bridges on National Highway 326 (NH-326) in the state of Odisha. The core purpose of this notification is to authorize a competent authority to perform functions related to land acquisition for this project. The key finding is that this notification outlines the specific stretch of land, districts, taluks, and villages affected by the land acquisition process required for the bridge reconstruction. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide a detailed overview of a notification published by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on March 10, 2021, concerning land acquisition for the reconstruction of bridges on NH-326 in Odisha. This analysis is based solely on the information provided in the policy text. **3. Policy Overview:** * This is a new policy notification specifically authorizing action related to land acquisition for a defined project. * **Core Objective:** The core objective is to authorize a competent authority to perform functions under the National Highways Act, 1956, to facilitate land acquisition for the reconstruction of bridges on NH-326 in Odisha. **4. Background and Rationale:** This notification addresses the need to acquire land for the "Reconstruction of 5 Nos H.L. Bridges" on the NH-326 Malkangiri Motu Road in Odisha. It appears the existing infrastructure (bridges) are in need of reconstruction, necessitating the acquisition of land to facilitate this project. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * This is a New Policy * The notification authorizes the officer mentioned in column 2 of the schedule to act as the competent authority, empowered by section 3(a) of the National Highways Act, 1956. * The schedule lists the specific stretch of land (from Ch. 37900 Km. to 468.15 Km. of NH326), districts (Malkangiri), Taluks/Mandals (Malkangiri, Mathili, Kalimela), and villages (Salapapadar, Pangam, Kalimela, Erbanpally, Pendikonda, Kangurukonda, Pedawada) impacted by the land acquisition process. * The notification becomes effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette (March 10, 2021). **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience and stakeholders include: * **Landowners:** Individuals and entities owning land within the specified stretch on NH-326 in the districts, taluks, and villages listed in the schedule. * **Residents:** People residing in the specified villages who may be directly or indirectly affected by the land acquisition and reconstruction project. * **Contractors:** Firms and entities involved in the reconstruction of the bridges. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency:** The officer designated in column 2 of the schedule, acting as the competent authority, is responsible for implementing the land acquisition process. The Deputy Collector-cum-LAO, Malkangiri Collectorate is the named officer. * **Timeline:** The notification takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette (March 10, 2021). The land acquisition process can commence from this date. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The expected outcomes of this policy include: * Facilitation of the land acquisition process required for the reconstruction of the five bridges on NH-326. * Improved transportation infrastructure and connectivity on NH-326. * Potential disruption to the lives and livelihoods of those directly affected by the land acquisition. * Possible economic benefits arising from improved infrastructure. **9. Conclusion:** The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways notification authorizes the necessary steps for land acquisition to facilitate the reconstruction of critical bridges on NH-326 in Odisha. The notification specifies the relevant authority, affected areas, and legal basis for the action. This action is essential for the timely completion of the bridge reconstruction project, with expected improvements to regional connectivity and infrastructure.

Key Entities Referenced