Publication of notification under Section 3A NHAI

## Policy Analysis Report: Land Acquisition for National Highway NH2/NH19 Expansion in Uttar Pradesh **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, concerning the acquisition of land for the building, widening, maintenance, management, and operation of National Highway NH2/New NH19 in the district of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. The core purpose of this policy is to facilitate infrastructure development by acquiring land for the highway project. Key findings include the declaration of intent to acquire specific land parcels, the provision for objections from landowners, and the establishment of a process for addressing those objections. **2. Introduction:** This report provides an informative overview and analysis of the notification S.O. 5218(E) issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, dated November 9, 2022, regarding land acquisition for National Highway NH2/New NH19. The analysis focuses solely on the information provided within the notification itself. **3. Policy Overview:** * This is a new policy action, not an amendment. * **Core Objective(s):** The core objective, as stated in the notification, is to acquire land for the “building widening Six lane etc., maintenance, management and operation of NH2 New NH19 in the stretch of land from KM 93.800 to KM 176.760 in the District of Mathura in the state of Uttar Pradesh.” This objective directly supports infrastructure development and improved transportation. **4. Background and Rationale:** As a new policy action, the notification addresses the need for land acquisition to facilitate the expansion and maintenance of National Highway NH2/New NH19. The text infers that the existing infrastructure is insufficient, requiring widening and improvements. This is likely driven by increasing traffic volume, the need for better connectivity, and the promotion of economic growth in the region. The reference to "Six lane etc." suggests a significant upgrade is planned. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This is a new policy action so all provisions apply to it. * **Declaration of Intent:** The Central Government declares its intention to acquire land for the specified purpose. * **Land Description:** The notification includes a schedule providing a brief description of the land to be acquired, including survey plot numbers, type of land, nature of land, and area. A specific parcel in Semari village is listed as an example. * **Right to Objection:** Individuals with interest in the land are granted the right to object to the land acquisition within 21 days of the notification's publication. * **Objection Procedure:** Objections must be submitted in writing to the Competent Authority (Special Land Acquisition Officer, NH 2/New NH19, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh), stating the grounds for objection. * **Hearing and Enquiry:** The Competent Authority is obligated to provide objectors an opportunity to be heard, either in person or through a legal practitioner, and may conduct further enquiry. * **Final Decision:** The Competent Authority's decision to allow or disallow the objections is final. * **Access to Information:** Land plans and other details are available for inspection at the Competent Authority's office. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The target audience and directly affected stakeholders are: * Landowners in the specified stretch of land from KM 93.800 to KM 176.760 in the District of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. * Residents and businesses in the vicinity of the highway project. * The Competent Authority (Special Land Acquisition Officer, NH 2/New NH19, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh). * Legal practitioners representing landowners. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is the primary responsible agency. The Competent Authority (Special Land Acquisition Officer, NH 2/New NH19, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh) is responsible for handling objections and land acquisition. * **Timelines:** Landowners have 21 days from the date of publication to file objections. * **Procedures:** The procedure involves publishing the notification, receiving objections, holding hearings, conducting inquiries, and making a final decision on the objections. Landowners can inspect plans at the Competent Authority's office. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes of this policy are: * Facilitation of the expansion and improvement of National Highway NH2/New NH19. * Improved connectivity and transportation efficiency in the region. * Economic development spurred by improved infrastructure. * Potential displacement and disruption for landowners and residents in the acquired area. **9. Conclusion:** The notification S.O. 5218(E) signals the government's intention to proceed with the expansion and improvement of National Highway NH2/New NH19 through land acquisition. The policy provides a framework for landowners to voice objections, ensuring a degree of due process in the acquisition process. The success of the project depends on effective implementation, fair compensation for landowners, and minimizing disruption to affected communities. This project highlights the ongoing effort to improve infrastructure and connectivity across India.

Key Entities Referenced