HomeInfrastructureRajkot MLA Mevani leads protest over delayed highway only 20km ready

Rajkot MLA Mevani leads protest over delayed highway only 20km ready

Rajkot commuters and traders, led by Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani, today besieged the District Collector’s office in protest over the National Highway Authority of India’s delay in completing the Rs 1,204 crore six‑lane Rajkot–Jetpur highway. The 67‑kilometre project, launched in September 2022 with a planned completion by September 2025, has seen only 20 km finished, prompting an extension to June 2026 amid rising commuter distress.

With bandages wrapped around their arms and heads, demonstrators—chanting “No road no toll” and “BJP government is a thief”—pressed their demands, surrounding the collectorate. A damaged poster mocking Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari underscored their frustration. Mevani urged Prime Minister Modi to undertake a symbolic roadshow on the troubled stretch, tweeting that only such high-profile attention will “wake up” NHAI officials. He emphasised that “Rajkot‑Jetpur six‑lane highway has claimed many lives,” and accused authorities of ignoring the plight of the estimated 2.5 lakh daily commuters.

The delay has left the highway riddled with craters and potholes, worsening traffic congestion and increasing accidents during monsoon rains. Ambulances and emergency vehicles are reportedly being trapped amid chaos. Rajkot District Collector Dr Om Prakash confirmed that the six‑lane construction is ongoing—with 18 bridges under development and 14 diversion points in use. He noted that 12 cranes, including two at the toll plaza, are deployed to manage traffic disruptions. Prakash added that three additional bridges could open if there is a dry spell of 48 hours. Traffic marshals have been placed in shifts near Sadak Pipliya to ease congestion.

Mevani underscored the human toll of the delay, stating that commuters, especially those in emergencies, are caught in life‑or‑death situations. He demanded a halt to toll collection until the road is made safe, accusing NHAI of collecting Rs 150 crore in tolls despite the unfinished infrastructure. The protest, framed as a fight for Rajkot’s dignity and daily safety, marks a strategic escalation. Mevani warned that the movement will intensify if tangible progress remains elusive. Meanwhile, local officials are reportedly in talks with NHAI to reconsider toll enforcement on the stretch until construction meets safety standards.

This confrontation spotlights deeper governance issues: accountability for public infrastructure, timely delivery of national projects, and commuter rights. As Rajkot’s commuters bear the brunt of incomplete work, the protest reflects growing impatience with infrastructural inertia—and a demand for equitable transit solutions. The highway protest may yet compel authorities to reassess priorities, ensuring smooth, safe and sustainable connectivity for Western India’s vital commerce corridor.

Also Read: Kolkata Awarded JSW Infra Rs 740 Cr Contract to Rebuild Berth 8 and Mechanise Berths 7–8

Rajkot MLA Mevani leads protest over delayed highway only 20km ready
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