Reports show the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) is taking action on problems with roads. This includes roads with potholes and a lack of proper roads to some areas. The Commission is asking officials for reports and explanations on what steps are being taken to fix these problems.
Commission Takes Action on Road Conditions
The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has started looking into issues with roads in different areas. This action comes after being made aware of these problems.
In Kerala, the SHRC is focusing on potholes on roads. Specifically, the Chembumukku Civil Line-Attipetti Nagar Road and SA Road near the Kadavanthra metro station. The Commission has told the Thrikkakara municipal secretary and the Kochi Corporation secretary to repair these potholes. They also want warning signs and reflectors put up where there are potholes. A report on the work done is required within a week.
In Munnar, the SHRC has started a case about the lack of good roads leading to five tribal settlements. The Commission has asked the Idukki Collector to hold a meeting with officials from different departments. These include Revenue, Public Works, Tribal Welfare, local panchayats, the Munnar Wildlife Warden, and the Divisional Forest Officer. Officials from the Idukki block panchayat, district panchayat, and Vattavada panchayat are also asked to give separate reports. A senior officer representing the Collector, along with staff from the district panchayat, block panchayat, Vattavada grama panchayat, and the Munnar Wildlife Warden, must attend a meeting to explain the situation. The Commission also ordered that road, health, and education services should be provided quickly.
Challenges in Road Maintenance and Accountability
In Nagpur, the situation with road ownership and maintenance is complex.
There are over 3,549 kilometers of roads in Nagpur. However, the responsibility for these roads is spread across different government groups.
Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) manages about 2,406 km.
Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT) is responsible for 965 km.
Public Works Department (PWD) handles 148 km, which includes the Inner Ring Road.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) manages around 30 km.
Despite this division, only the NMC appears to be actively involved in road upkeep and is often held responsible when problems arise.
This scattering of responsibility means that accountability for road conditions can be unclear, even though multiple agencies are involved.
Problems like uneven surfaces where different types of roads meet have created hazards for drivers and walkers.
Broader Use of SHRC Powers
The SHRC has used its powers to look into other matters besides road issues.
In Malvan, the Maharashtra Human Rights Commission (SHRC) started an investigation into demolitions after reviewing news reports. The Commission noted that the demolition seemed to happen quickly after a complaint, without proper notice or legal checks. This suggests a possible failure to follow established legal procedures.
In Mumbai, the SHRC closed a case about a neglected pond and garden in Malad West after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) promised to take care of the property. The SHRC had started this case after a media report highlighted the poor state of the garden, which was meant for public use but was not maintained.
Next Steps
The SHRC's actions indicate a move to ensure that government bodies are addressing public concerns about infrastructure and following due process. The reports requested by the Commission are expected to provide clarity on the actions being taken and the challenges faced in maintaining public spaces and infrastructure.
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