Publication of Gazette Notification to declaration of competent authority for land acquisition (CALA) in the district Lakhisarai and Jamui (Bihar) for 3rd Line between Kiul to Jhajha (53.92 km)of East Central Railway

**Executive Summary** This notification, issued by the Ministry of Railways and published on July 15, 2026, authorizes specific District Land Acquisition Officers as competent authorities for the "3rd Line between Kiul to Jhajha" project in Bihar. The authorization, effective from the publication date, facilitates land acquisition for this designated "Special Railway Project" under the Railway (Amendment) Act 2008. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Project Specification** * The project involves the construction of a 3rd line between Kiul and Jhajha, covering a distance of 53.92 km. * The project is officially classified as a "Special Railway Project" in the state of Bihar. * **Legal Authorization** * Authorization is granted under Clause 7A of Section 2 of the Railway (Amendment) Act 2008. * The District Land Acquisition Officers (DLAO) for Lakhisarai and Jamui are designated as the competent authorities. * These officers were nominated by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Land Reforms Department, Government of Bihar. * **Jurisdiction and Timeline** * The authorized officers are empowered to perform their functions within their respective local jurisdictions. * The notification and the powers granted therein come into effect from the date of publication in the Gazette of India (July 15, 2026). **Impact Analysis** **District Land Acquisition Officers (Lakhisarai and Jamui)** **Impact** They are now legally empowered as the competent authorities to oversee land acquisition functions for the specific railway project within their districts. **Action Required** Exercise their powers under the Railway (Amendment) Act 2008 to facilitate the project's land requirements within their jurisdictions. **Ministry of Railways (East Central Railway)** **Impact** The Ministry secures the necessary legal and administrative framework to proceed with the land acquisition for the 53.92 km expansion. **Action Required** Coordinate with the newly authorized competent authorities to execute the construction of the 3rd line between Kiul and Jhajha. **State Government of Bihar (Revenue and Land Reforms Department)** **Impact** The department’s nominees are officially integrated into the federal project execution framework. **Action Required** Provide necessary administrative support and supervision to the DLAOs to ensure the land acquisition process aligns with the project timeline.

Key Entities Referenced