Request for Publication of extraordinary e Gazette Notification for Spl. Land Acquisition Officer, Collectorate, Sambalpur for Land acquisition of Jharsuguda to Sason 3rd and 4th line

## Policy Analysis Report: East Coast Railway Construction Project - Land Acquisition Authority **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification from the Ministry of Railways regarding the East Coast Railway Construction project. The notification (S.O. 1939E) designates a specific officer as the Competent Authority for land acquisition related to the Jharsuguda Sason 3rd and 4th line project in Odisha. This designation empowers the specified officer with the authority to perform functions related to land acquisition under the Railways Act of 1989. The key finding is the formal assignment of responsibility for land acquisition to facilitate the railway construction project. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide an informative overview of a notification issued by the Ministry of Railways concerning the East Coast Railway Construction. The analysis is based solely on the text provided and focuses on understanding the purpose, provisions, and implications of this notification. **3. Policy Overview:** * This is a *new* policy designation related to an existing project. * **Core Objective:** To formally authorize a specific officer as the Competent Authority for land acquisition to facilitate the Jharsuguda Sason 3rd and 4th line construction within the East Coast Railway project. **4. Background and Rationale:** As a new policy designation regarding land acquisition authority, this notification likely addresses the need to streamline the land acquisition process for the Jharsuguda Sason 3rd and 4th line railway construction project. By designating a Competent Authority, the Central Government aims to expedite the acquisition of land required for the project, potentially removing bottlenecks and ensuring timely progress. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * This is a *new designation*, not an amendment. The following provisions are established: * **Designation of Competent Authority:** The Spl. Land Acquisition Officer, Collectorate, Sambalpur, for Land acquisition of Jharsuguda Sason 3rd and 4th line of East Coast Railway, is designated as the Competent Authority. * **Scope of Authority:** The designated officer is authorized to perform the function of such authority under Section 2, Clause 7A of the Railways Act, 1989 (24 of 1989). * **Geographic Scope:** The authority applies to the area of the Special Railway Project, specifically the Construction of Jharsuguda Sason 3rd and 4th line, in the districts of Jharsuguda and Sambalpur, State: Odisha. * **Effective Date:** The designation is effective from the date of publication of the notification in the Official Gazette (April 30, 2025). **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The direct stakeholders affected by this notification include: * **The Spl. Land Acquisition Officer, Collectorate, Sambalpur:** The individual now officially responsible for land acquisition. * **Landowners in Jharsuguda and Sambalpur Districts:** Potentially affected by land acquisition for the railway line. * **East Coast Railway Construction Project Team:** Benefiting from a more streamlined land acquisition process. * **Ministry of Railways:** Overseeing the project and ensuring its timely completion. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency:** The Ministry of Railways is the responsible agency, specifically the East Coast Railway Construction division. * **Competent Authority:** The Spl. Land Acquisition Officer, Collectorate, Sambalpur. * **Timelines/Procedures:** While the notification does not explicitly outline timelines or procedures, it implies that the Competent Authority is now empowered to execute land acquisition processes according to the Railways Act, 1989. The effective date is clearly stated. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes of this notification include: * **Expedited Land Acquisition:** Streamlining the process should lead to faster land acquisition for the railway project. * **Reduced Project Delays:** Quicker land acquisition can help prevent or minimize delays in the construction of the Jharsuguda Sason 3rd and 4th line. * **Improved Project Efficiency:** Clearly defining the Competent Authority should enhance the efficiency of the overall construction project. **9. Conclusion:** The Ministry of Railways' notification (S.O. 1939E) formally designates the Spl. Land Acquisition Officer, Collectorate, Sambalpur, as the Competent Authority for land acquisition for the Jharsuguda Sason 3rd and 4th line railway construction project. This designation is a crucial step in streamlining the land acquisition process, potentially accelerating project completion and enhancing overall efficiency. This notification is a significant element in facilitating the progress of the East Coast Railway Construction.

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