Govt should ensure sufficient land for public infra: Madras HC
Constructing infrastructure without making sufficient provision for expansion and subsequently demolishing it within a short period of five to 10 years would result in unnecessary wastage of public funds. Madurai : Whenever the government establishes public infrastructure such as bus stands, railway stations, colleges, hospitals and other public institutions, it should ensure that sufficient land is acquired and adequate space is earmarked for future expansion, Madras high court has observed. A division bench of Justice P Velmurugan and Justice K K Ramakrishnan observed that such a forward-looking approach would help avoid premature demolition, prevent the wasteful expenditure of public money and ensure the efficient and sustainable utilisation of public resources. The judges observed that while establishing public infrastructure, authorities should take into consideration not only the present requirements but also the possibility of future expansion. Adequate space should be provided at the initial stage itself to accommodate future needs.
The petitioner stated that the complex was officially inaugurated for public use in 2017. Generally, public buildings are designed and engineered to remain structurally sound for a period of 30 to 50 years. However, even before the completion of 10 years from the date on which the market complex was opened for public use, authorities are proposing to demolish the existing market building and construct a new structure. The state submitted that out of the total 260 shops in the market complex, 150 have already been demolished for the purpose of expanding the bus stand.
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