Publication of notification under Section 3a MORTH

## Policy Analysis Report: National Highway No. 165 Upgradation in Andhra Pradesh **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways regarding the acquisition of land for the upgradation of National Highway No. 165 in the West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. The notification authorizes specific officers to act as competent authorities for land acquisition related to the project, which aims to upgrade a section of the highway to a four-lane configuration with paved shoulders. The key finding is the delineation of authority and geographical scope for this infrastructure project. **2. Introduction:** This report provides an overview of a policy notification (S.O. 3092(E)) published by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on July 6, 2022. The report aims to inform the affected industry about the land acquisition process for the upgradation of National Highway No. 165, based on the information provided in the policy text. **3. Policy Overview:** This is a *new* policy notification. * **Core Objective(s):** The core objective is to facilitate the upgradation of a specific stretch of National Highway No. 165 from Km. 61.740 to Km. 107.660 to a four-lane highway with paved shoulders. This is to be achieved through land acquisition. **4. Background and Rationale:** As a new policy notification, the likely problem this addresses is the need to improve the infrastructure of National Highway No. 165. The upgradation to a four-lane configuration with paved shoulders suggests an intent to increase traffic capacity, improve road safety, and facilitate smoother transportation along this route. This improvement likely addresses existing congestion issues or anticipates future growth in traffic volume. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This is a new policy so we analyze the key provisions of the policy document. The notification establishes the following: * **Authorization of Competent Authorities:** The central government authorizes officers listed in the schedule to act as competent authorities under the National Highways Act, 1956. * **Scope of Land Acquisition:** The land acquisition pertains to the stretch of National Highway No. 165 from Km. 61.740 to Km. 107.660 in the West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. * **Project Goal:** The ultimate goal is the upgradation of this section of the highway to a four-lane road with paved shoulders. * **Geographic Scope:** The notification specifies the state (Andhra Pradesh), district (West Godavari), and various Taluk/Mandals and Villages affected by the land acquisition process (Ajjamuru, Akiveedu, Dumpagadapa, Bhimavaram, Cherukawada, Kalisipudi, Undi, Vandram Narasimharajapura, Agraharam, Kumudavalli, Vissakoderu, Palakoderu, Goraganamudi, Pennada Agraharam, Srungavruksham, Veeravasaram, Narasimhapuram, Kovvada, Bhimavaram, Gunupudi, Kalla, Peda Amiram, Narasapuram, Chittavaram, Lankalakoderu, Dagguluru, Ballipadu, Sivadevunichikkala, Gorintada, Palakollu, Chandaparru, Digamarru, Pulapalli, Palakollu Municipal, Palakollu Rural). **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience and stakeholders include: * **Landowners:** Individuals and entities owning land within the specified stretch of National Highway No. 165 in West Godavari District. * **Residents:** Individuals residing in the villages and areas directly affected by the land acquisition. * **Businesses:** Businesses operating along the highway that may be affected by construction or changes in traffic patterns. * **Construction Companies:** Companies involved in the bidding and execution of the highway upgradation project. * **Transportation Companies:** Companies using National Highway 165 for transporting goods and people. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** * Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (issuing authority). * The "competent authorities" designated in column 2 of the schedule are responsible for carrying out the land acquisition process under the National Highways Act, 1956. * **Timelines/Procedures:** While the notification doesn't specify explicit timelines, it states the authorization is effective "from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette," suggesting an immediate commencement of the land acquisition process. The National Highways Act, 1956, would dictate the specific procedures for land acquisition, compensation, and dispute resolution. The process for land acquisition will follow due process and regulations in accordance with the National Highways Act, 1956. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes and impact of this notification and the subsequent highway upgradation include: * **Improved Transportation Infrastructure:** Upgrading the highway to four lanes with paved shoulders will likely increase traffic capacity, reduce congestion, and improve overall traffic flow. * **Enhanced Road Safety:** Paved shoulders and improved road conditions will contribute to enhanced road safety for all vehicles. * **Economic Development:** Improved transportation infrastructure can stimulate economic activity in the region by facilitating trade, commerce, and tourism. * **Increased Land Value:** Increased traffic and commerce as a result of the improved highway will potentially increase the land value along the stretch of highway. **9. Conclusion:** The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways notification authorizes the land acquisition process for the upgradation of National Highway No. 165 in West Godavari District. The upgradation is intended to improve transportation infrastructure, enhance road safety, and stimulate economic development in the region. The successful and timely implementation of this project will depend on effective coordination between the designated competent authorities, landowners, and other stakeholders. The industries impacted by this policy should monitor the implementation and associated updates regarding the land acquisition process.

Key Entities Referenced