A NEW POLICY IS NEEDED TO CURB ENCROACHMENT ON ROADSIDES IN BIHAR

A NEW POLICY IS NEEDED TO CURB ENCROACHMENT ON ROADSIDES IN BIHAR

13-DEC-ENG 4

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-------------------------The increasing encroachment on roads in Bihar has become a serious social, administrative, and developmental problem. From main highways to rural roads, uncontrolled construction, shops, stalls, illegal sheds, and encroachments on both sides have become a common sight. This not only affects traffic but also has a significant impact on road safety, the increasing number of accidents, delays in services like ambulances and fire brigades, and urban and rural development plans.

The current situation necessitates that the Bihar government formulate a strong, clear, and implementable policy to prevent roadside encroachments. Why is a new policy necessary?

1. The traffic system is collapsing. Roads are being widened, but encroachments are increasing even faster. Footpaths have disappeared, and only half of the road remains usable, shared by both vehicles and pedestrians.

2. Increase in accidents. Shops and illegal constructions along the roadsides create sudden crowds, parked vehicles, and blind spots, leading to a rise in serious accidents.

3. Obstruction to development plans., Encroachments are a major obstacle to road widening, the construction of new bridges and corridors, causing delays and increased costs for projects.

4. Difficulty in emergency services. Due to encroachments, ambulances, police, and disaster relief vehicles are unable to reach their destinations on time; sometimes, the roads are completely blocked.

What should the new policy entail? The state government can formulate a policy that is clear, strict, and applicable to all. 1. A minimum 30-meter no-construction zone on both sides of the road.

Whether it is a national highway, state highway, or district road—no person should be allowed to construct a house, shop, shed, warehouse, or any other structure within a 30-meter area on either side.

2. Identification and phased removal plan for existing encroachments. A transparent process for removing encroachments should be implemented through mapping, drone surveys, and notices.

3. Mandatory Provision of Footpaths and Service Roads Where space is available, service roads, pedestrian walkways, bus stops, and auto rickshaw stands should be planned and implemented to prevent people from encroaching on the main road.

4. Focus on Alternative Arrangements Market complexes, haat-bazaar zones, and vending zones should be created to provide alternative livelihood options for small shopkeepers.

5. Ensuring Accountability of Local Administration In case of encroachment, the responsibility of the concerned Circle Officer, Municipal Council/Corporation, and police should be fixed.

What will be the benefits of removing encroachments? Roads will become wider and safer. Traffic congestion will be reduced. Accidents will decrease. Development work will gain momentum. Both cities and villages will look well-organized. A favorable environment for investment will be created.

The path to Bihar's development passes through its roads. If the roads continue to be plagued by encroachments, neither safety will improve nor will development accelerate. Therefore, it is time for the state government to formulate a strong policy and make it clear that the 30-meter area along the roadside will be completely free from any kind of construction and commercial activity. This step will not only make Bihar safer and more accessible but will also play a crucial role in accelerating its progress on the path of development.