Gujarat High Court warns NHAI over damaged highways, illegal toll collection

The Gujarat High Court has sharply criticised the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for the poor condition of national highways across the state, calling travel on the broken roads “a horrifying experience.”

During a hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL), Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice D N Ray described their recent journey from Bharuch to Surat as “terrifying and painful,” noting heavy traffic jams and dangerously uneven surfaces. “If you cannot resolve the issue, the court will issue its own orders,” the bench warned.

The judges directed the NHAI to stop making excuses and take immediate steps to repair the roads, adding that the agency should seek assistance from the state government if needed.

Highways in disrepair

The bench highlighted that the Bharuch–Surat and Surat–Dahisar stretches are in an “especially deplorable state,” worsened by recent rains. Large potholes and uneven patches have created serious hazards for motorists and prolonged traffic congestion.

Toll collection after expiry

The court also took note of continued toll collection at five plazas on these sections, even though the concession agreements expired in 2022. The bench questioned the legality of charging motorists when basic maintenance has lapsed.

Public safety at stake

Emphasising the threat to human life, the court said the situation “must be addressed urgently.” It ordered the NHAI to file a detailed response and fixed the next hearing for next month. If immediate steps are not taken, the bench warned it will issue binding orders to ensure repairs and relief for the public.