Kochi: The Kerala Public Works Department (PWD) informed the High Court on Thursday that road restoration works have begun across the state. The submission was made before Justice Devan Ramachandran, who was hearing a case on poor road conditions and the rising number of accidents caused by them.

When the matter came up, the government pleader appearing for the PWD stated that restoration work was underway, a claim also confirmed by the Cochin Corporation. The counsel for the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) added that repairs on the Kaloor-Kadavanthra road are nearing completion.

However, on the issue of action against engineers responsible for the poor state of roads, no official report was submitted, despite claims that steps had been taken. The amicus curiae noted that many roads remain in poor condition, with only minor improvements visible due to the recent lull in rainfall.

Recording these submissions, the court directed all relevant authorities to file reports on their progress before the next hearing. Observing the gravity of the issue, the court reiterated that the right to travel is not just constitutional but "virtually a fundamental right," adding that the right to safety, protected under Article 21, holds even greater importance. "Bad roads not only curtail the right to travel but also endanger citizens. Delay in restoration becomes a virtual crime," the court said.

The court also referred to previous hearings where it had taken note of multiple accidents caused by pothole-ridden roads, including one in Thrissur. It noted that it has yet to receive a full report on that incident.

Concluding the session, Justice Ramachandran said, "I propose to clarify that should there be any road which remains unattended by the next posting date, the engineer in charge shall be present before this court."
(With LiveLaw inputs)