Publication of notification under Section 3a NHAI

## Policy Analysis Report: Notification Regarding Land Acquisition for Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway Project **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, published on November 2, 2022. The notification concerns land acquisition for the development of a 4/6 lane Greenfield access control expressway from Varanasi to Kolkata, specifically focusing on a stretch within the state of Jharkhand. The core purpose is to authorize competent authorities to perform functions related to land acquisition for this project, in accordance with the National Highways Act, 1956. The key finding is the delegation of authority to specific officers to expedite land acquisition for the designated portion of the expressway project. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of a notification (S.O. 5097E) issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways regarding land acquisition for the Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway project. The analysis is based solely on the information provided within the notification text. **3. Policy Overview:** * This is a new policy notification. * **Core Objective:** To authorize competent authorities to perform functions under the National Highways Act, 1956, to facilitate land acquisition for the Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway project in Jharkhand. **4. Background and Rationale:** * **Likely Problem Addressed:** The construction of a major infrastructure project like the Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway necessitates land acquisition. Efficient and legally sound land acquisition is crucial for the timely completion of the project. This notification likely aims to streamline this process by formally assigning authority to specific officers. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * This is a notification that establishes the following: * Authorization of officers (mentioned in column 2 of the Schedule) as competent authorities to perform functions under the National Highways Act, 1956. * The authorization is effective from the date of publication of the notification in the Official Gazette (November 2, 2022). * The authorization pertains to a specific stretch of land in Jharkhand, related to the Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway project (Bharatmala Pariyojana PhaseII lot9 package3 Under PIU Dhanbad Km 307700 to KM 377500 and Km 398000 to Km. 400500). * The project involves the development of a 4/6 lane Green Field access control expressway. * The land acquisition is for alignment in specified districts, taluks/mandals, and villages within Jharkhand (Bokaro District, Jaridih Taluk/Mandal, Kamlapur Village). **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** * **Directly Affected:** Landowners in the specified areas of Jharkhand (Bokaro District, Jaridih Taluk/Mandal, Kamlapur Village) where land acquisition is planned. * **Other Stakeholders:** * The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). * Construction companies involved in the expressway project. * Residents and businesses in the Varanasi-Kolkata region who will benefit from improved connectivity. * Jharkhand State Government. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is the issuing authority. The "competent authorities" mentioned in column 2 of the Schedule are responsible for executing the land acquisition process, specifically the District Land Acquisition Officer, Bokaro. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The notification is effective immediately upon publication (November 2, 2022). The procedures for land acquisition will likely follow the guidelines outlined in the National Highways Act, 1956. * The notification references "PIU Dhanbad" suggesting a Project Implementation Unit is involved in the execution. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** * The intended outcome is to facilitate and expedite land acquisition for the Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway project in the specified section within Jharkhand. This should contribute to the timely completion of the expressway, leading to improved connectivity, reduced travel times, and potential economic benefits for the region. **9. Conclusion:** The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' notification authorizes specific officers to proceed with land acquisition for a key section of the Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway project in Jharkhand. This notification is a crucial step in advancing the project and realizing its potential benefits for regional connectivity and economic growth. The proper and swift execution of the land acquisition process, adhering to relevant regulations, is essential for the project's success.

Key Entities Referenced