UditVani, Jamshedpur: The Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday formally disposed of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the reconstruction of a dangerously dilapidated stretch of National Highway-220, following the submission of a final status report by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) confirming completion of the roadwork.
The Division Bench headed by the Chief Justice was hearing the final proceedings in WPA 5110 of 2024 (Akash Sharma vs Union of India & Others).
The PIL, filed earlier this year by Calcutta High Court advocate Akash Sharma, sought urgent repairs to the 4-kilometre stretch between Rasun Chopa and Tiring Border in West Singhbhum district.
Road Work Completed Within Deadline, NHAI Submits Final Report
During the hearing, officials from NHAI’s Chaibasa Division submitted a detailed report stating that the reconstruction had been substantially completed within the stipulated timeline. The Court accepted the report and took it on record.
Appearing in person, petitioner Akash Sharma expressed satisfaction with the authorities’ action and requested that the matter be closed.
He emphasized that the progress was made possible only due to the timely intervention of the High Court.
“Without the Court’s directions, such infrastructure work often lingers for years. It is only because of judicial oversight that the reconstruction happened in a time-bound manner, ultimately benefiting thousands,” Sharma told the court.
Commuters Welcome Improved Road Conditions
Local residents and daily commuters who had long endured the pothole-ridden highway have welcomed the completion of the roadwork.
“It was a nightmare to travel on that stretch. Vehicles used to break down frequently, and accidents were common,” said Mahendra Singh, a schoolteacher who commutes daily between Chakradharpur and Tiring.
“Now the road is smooth and safe — a big relief for all of us, ” he added.
“Earlier it took almost an hour to cover just 4 km. Now it takes barely 10 minutes. We thank whoever pushed for this change,” said Rukmini Kumari, a vegetable vendor who travels to the border market daily.
Court Acknowledges Efforts, Disposes of PIL
Taking note of the submissions and the final status report, the Division Bench disposed of the PIL. The matter, which highlighted a critical public safety issue, has now concluded with visible improvements on the ground.
Originally filed to address the alarming condition of NH-220, the PIL prompted swift administrative action.
The episode underscores how judicial interventions can ensure accountability and timely execution of infrastructure projects, especially those directly impacting public safety and mobility.
