Maharashtra orders ban on illegal highway dhabas sets 60-day demolition deadline

The Maharashtra government has ordered an immediate ban on illegal dhabas, eateries and other commercial structures located within the Right of Way (ROW) of National Highways across the state. Authorities have also been directed to remove existing unauthorised structures within 60 days, as part of a wider road-safety and highway-management drive.

The directive, issued by the Rural Development Department, aims to keep land reserved for national highways free from encroachments that can obstruct traffic, create safety hazards or interfere with highway operations. The action follows directions issued by the Supreme Court concerning highway safety.

60-Day Deadline for Demolition

Under the new directions, district magistrates have been instructed to ensure that new and existing illegal roadside structures are demolished or removed within 60 days.

The order covers unauthorised dhabas, eateries and commercial establishments occupying highway Right of Way. District authorities, police and relevant highway agencies will be responsible for identifying and clearing such encroachments.

The government has also directed districts with National Highways to establish dedicated Highway Safety Task Forces to monitor highway safety zones and conduct regular inspections.

New Licences for Highway Businesses Face Restrictions

The government has introduced stricter rules for commercial establishments located within highway safety zones.

No department, local authority or government agency will be permitted to issue or renew licences, No-Objection Certificates or trade approvals for such sites without prior clearance from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) or the Public Works Department (PWD).

Existing licences will also be reviewed, with authorities instructed to complete the review process within 30 days, Maharashtra orders ban on illegal highway dhabas sets 60-day demolition deadline.

Highway Safety Task Forces to Monitor Roads

The new task forces will bring together officials from the district administration, police, NHAI or the concerned land-owning agency, PWD and local authorities.

District Collectors and police commissioners or superintendents will share responsibility for identifying and removing encroachments. The task forces are expected to conduct regular reviews, with meetings scheduled every fortnight to monitor progress.

Why the Move Matters for Highway Safety

Illegal roadside establishments can create multiple risks, including unplanned vehicle parking, pedestrian movement close to high-speed traffic and obstruction of highway operations.

The Maharashtra government's latest order seeks to restore the intended function of highway Right of Way and reduce potential accident risks. The move also reflects the state's efforts to implement the Supreme Court's highway-safety directions.

Conclusion Maharashtra orders ban on illegal highway dhabas sets 60-day demolition deadline

Maharashtra's decision to ban illegal highway dhabas and order the removal of unauthorised structures within 60 days marks a significant step towards stricter highway management.

With district-level task forces, tighter licensing requirements and coordinated enforcement involving collectors, police, NHAI and PWD, the state aims to make National Highway corridors safer and more efficiently managed.

The coming 60 days will be crucial as authorities begin identifying and removing illegal structures across Maharashtra's highway network.

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