In response to the escalating incidents of accidents attributed to unauthorized cuts on national highways, the Yogi government in Uttar Pradesh has issued directives to all district magistrates to promptly close such cuts on the national highway system (NHS). An official release from the Chief Minister’s office (CMO) highlighted the government’s commitment to reducing road accidents and associated fatalities through this proactive measure.
According to the CMO’s official statement, “The officials have also been instructed to regularly monitor after the closure of the illegal cuts to avoid their recurrence on national highways.” Illegally made cuts on national highways have been identified as posing a significant risk of major accidents, including those involving school buses.
Principal Secretary L Venkateswara Lu has issued guidelines to all district magistrates in the state, emphasizing the closure of unauthorized cuts on national highways. The order stems from discussions held during the Implicit Legislation Committee meeting of the State Assembly on November 20, 2023. The committee expressed serious concern about accidents resulting from illegal cuts on state highways and urged officials to take immediate action.
In his order, the Principal Secretary stressed the necessity of closing such unauthorized cuts to prevent accidents. District magistrates across the state are instructed to issue effective orders for the immediate closure of unauthorized cuts within their jurisdiction. Furthermore, they are directed to consistently monitor and assess the situation regarding these illegal cuts even after closure to prevent their recurrence.
The order explicitly states that if any unauthorized cut is found to be reopened, swift action should be taken to close it immediately, with a focus on ensuring accountability. The Yogi government’s initiative aligns with its broader commitment to enhance road safety and prevent accidents on national highways.