NHAI implements revised guidelines to curb cost escalation & streamline land acquisition

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced revised guidelines to expedite approval for land acquisition and counteract potential increases in land costs or changes in land use with the intention of obtaining higher compensation. Under the new process, detailed project reports will be submitted with three alignments after stakeholder consultation. NHAI will approach state authorities to prevent land sale-purchase and changes in land use once project approval and alignment are finalized, updating revenue records accordingly. The guidelines aim for timely approvals, and the projects must secure approval by June 30 each year or within three months of inclusion in the scheme.