In a bid to tackle the longstanding issue of deteriorating road quality, the Gujarat High Court has directed the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) to address poor road conditions across the city. The order, delivered by a bench comprising Chief Justice and Justice, mandates AMC Commissioner to set up a specialised team of observers tasked with evaluating the quality of patchwork and resurfacing activities on Ahmedabad’s roads. This comes as a significant step, addressing concerns raised by the amicus curiae, , about inconsistent and substandard patchwork across various areas. The amicus highlighted specific locations, such as Iskcon Bridge, where low-quality patchwork has led to hazardous, bumpy roads. The High Court’s intervention indicates a growing emphasis on accountability within civic bodies to maintain essential infrastructure that ensures public safety.
The directive further stipulates that AMC’s monitoring committee should promptly assess and identify areas with immediate need for road corrections, enhancing both public safety and commuter convenience. The committee is expected to work collaboratively with the amicus curiae to ensure a comprehensive review process, focusing on high-traffic areas where poor road conditions often lead to accidents. As part of this initiative, the High Court also acknowledged the recent introduction of digital enforcement measures by Ahmedabad’s traffic police, including the Violators on Camera (VoC) mobile application. The application enables police to document traffic violations on the spot, forwarding the evidence directly to the control room for issuing e-challans. Additionally, three Police Control Room (PCR) vans, equipped with AI-driven cameras, have been deployed to capture traffic infringements, reinforcing the city’s commitment to road safety.
From a sustainability perspective, the focus on road quality highlights a need for AMC to adopt materials and construction techniques that are not only durable but also environmentally friendly. Poorly maintained roads lead to increased fuel consumption due to vehicle idling and frequent stops, contributing to higher carbon emissions. Ensuring high-quality, long-lasting roads in Ahmedabad could thus play a significant role in the city’s journey toward sustainable urban development. This sustainability angle underscores the need for planning that prioritises eco-friendly construction practices while enhancing public infrastructure.
In the broader urban context, this directive speaks to the intersection of civic responsibility, technological advancement, and environmental sustainability in India’s rapidly growing cities. As road networks are essential to economic activity and public mobility, maintaining them effectively is vital for both urban safety and development. The High Court’s decision reinforces the necessity for AMC and local government bodies to prioritise citizen welfare and sustainable infrastructure, establishing Ahmedabad as a model for other cities facing similar infrastructural challenges.
