The Central Railway has reiterated that prior approval through a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from railway authorities is compulsory for any construction activity within 30 metres of railway land. The directive comes amid concerns over increasing cases of unauthorised structures being built near railway property, especially along routes earmarked for future infrastructure projects.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Central Railway said the requirement follows guidelines issued by the Railway Board in its letter dated June 25, 2015, along with provisions under the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR).
Railway officials said recent inspections have identified multiple buildings and structures that have come up within the 30-metre buffer zone without obtaining the necessary approvals. Authorities expressed concern over the rise in such developments during ongoing land acquisition processes for railway projects.
According to the railway administration, unauthorised constructions near railway land can create hurdles in project execution, delay acquisition procedures and result in disputes related to compensation claims and ownership eligibility.
To maintain accurate records and avoid future conflicts, the Central Railway has begun conducting drone-based and video surveys along various project corridors. The surveys will help document existing land conditions and establish a clear record before further construction activities take place.
The railway authorities have advised citizens against carrying out any development work within 30 metres of railway land without securing the required NOC. Any structure built without approval will be considered unauthorised and may face action under applicable laws.
The Central Railway also clarified that buildings or structures constructed without mandatory permission will not qualify for compensation during land acquisition. Individuals undertaking such construction will bear the financial risk, including potential demolition costs or losses arising from non-compliance.
The railway administration has further urged gram panchayats, municipal councils, planning authorities and other local bodies to avoid granting development permissions within the restricted zone unless applicants provide valid Railway NOC approval.
Officials stated that coordination between railway authorities, local bodies and citizens is necessary to ensure timely completion of infrastructure projects and prevent legal disputes. The Central Railway appealed to the public to follow prescribed regulations and avoid unauthorised construction near railway land.
Source: Mid-day
