Bulldozer Action on Rajasthan Highways: Illegal Hotels and Eateries Within 75 Meters to Be Demolished

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Illegal constructions along Rajasthan’s national highways are facing strict action following a stern directive from the Rajasthan High Court. The Public Works Department (PWD) has issued notices to all district collectors, instructing them to remove any unauthorized buildings, including hotels, dhabas, and restaurants, located within 75 meters on either side of the highway median. The court emphasized that public safety takes precedence over property rights, citing these structures as potential hazards.

Understanding the 75-Meter Danger Zone
Under the new order, any commercial or residential construction within a 75-meter radius from the highway’s center point will be deemed illegal. Structures falling within this “danger zone” will first receive notices and, if non-compliant, will face demolition. The PWD and district authorities are expected to conduct detailed surveys to identify all unauthorized structures.

Court Stresses Safety Over Property
Hearing the case of Himmat Singh Gehlot vs. Rajasthan Government, the High Court highlighted that haphazard constructions along highways have significantly increased road accidents. Moreover, such encroachments hinder essential highway widening projects and the construction of flyovers, creating further public inconvenience and safety risks.

Municipal Approvals Will Not Protect Violators
Even properties with local municipal or panchayat approvals will not be exempt if they violate the 75-meter limit. The High Court has made it clear that compliance with highway safety regulations is mandatory, and unauthorized structures will be demolished regardless of any other permissions.

With this strict directive, thousands of illegal constructions across Rajasthan’s national highways are now under threat. PWD and district administration teams are preparing to begin precise measurements and mark structures for action.