Publication of Gazette Notification to declaration of competent authority for land acquisition (CALA) in the district Patna (Bihar) for Punarakh Kiul 3rd and 4th line (50 km)of East Central Railway.

**Executive Summary** This notification issued by the Ministry of Railways (East Central Railway) designates specific District Land Acquisition Officers in Bihar as the competent authorities for the "Punarakh-Kiul 3rd & 4th line (50 km)" project. Authorized under the Railway (Amendment) Act 2008, these officers are empowered to perform land acquisition functions for this Special Railway Project. The authorization is effective from the date of publication in the Gazette of India, June 15, 2026. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Legal Framework** * The authorization is granted under Clause 7A of Section 2 of the Railway (Amendment) Act 2008. * The notification defines the designated officers as the "competent authority" to perform functions under the aforementioned Act. * **Project Specifics** * Project Name: "Punarakh-Kiul 3rd & 4th line (50 km)". * Classification: Designated as a "Special Railway Project" located in the state of Bihar. * **Designated Competent Authorities** * District Land Acquisition Officer, Patna. * District Land Acquisition Officer, Lakhisarai. * The officers were nominated by the Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue and Land Reforms Department, State Government of Bihar. * **Effective Timeline** * The notification was signed on June 1, 2026. * The authorization takes effect immediately upon its publication in the Gazette of India (dated June 15, 2026). **Impact Analysis** **District Land Acquisition Officers (Patna and Lakhisarai)** **Impact** They are legally empowered and authorized to serve as the competent authorities for the land acquisition process required for the specified railway project. **Action Required** They must perform the administrative and legal functions of the competent authority as defined under the Railway (Amendment) Act 2008 to facilitate the project. **Ministry of Railways (East Central Railway)** **Impact** The Ministry secures the necessary local administrative authority to proceed with land-related requirements for the expansion of the Punarakh-Kiul lines. **Action Required** Coordinate with the newly authorized District Land Acquisition Officers to initiate and execute land acquisition proceedings. **Revenue and Land Reforms Department, Government of Bihar** **Impact** The department’s nominated officers are now formally integrated into the federal regulatory framework for this specific Special Railway Project. **Action Required** Provide necessary oversight and support to the designated DLAOs to ensure the land acquisition process adheres to state and federal requirements.

Key Entities Referenced