Nagpur: The proposed Zero Mile underpass connecting University Square to Manas Square has hit a legal roadblock after a checklist submitted to the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court revealed that 13 mandatory permissions are required before construction can legally proceed. According to the submission, none of these permissions have been obtained so far.
The disclosure came during the hearing of a PIL challenging the ongoing work. Amicus curiae Adv. Kuldeep Mahalle presented a detailed list of approvals that should have been secured prior to starting the project. He informed the court that available information shows zero compliance from the authorities undertaking the construction.
The division bench of Justice Anil Kilor and Justice Rajnish Vyas directed the State Government and MahaMetro to respond to the report. The next hearing is scheduled for November 19.
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12 Oct 2025
Mahalle submitted the checklist following the court’s earlier order dated October 16, 2025, instructing him to verify all mandatory permissions for major urban infrastructure works. He noted that the list was compiled using official records and online government databases.
Representing the State, Adv. Nitin Rao said the authorities would file their replies and clarify their position on each required permit.
Also Read : Nagpur’s Zero Mile Park Demolished for Rs 150 Crore Underpass Project
Key Permissions Flagged as Missing
The checklist includes several approvals that are legally required before such a project can begin. The major ones include:
• NOC from the Station Commander, as the site falls within a restricted defence area.
• Tree Authority permission for cutting or relocating trees.
• Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) consent for the RMC plant and hazardous waste management.
• Clearance from the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) for groundwater use during construction.
• Pollution Control Certificate for project vehicles.
• Mining/Excavation permission from the Mines and Geology Department.
• Municipal Corporation approval for construction and demolition waste disposal.
• NOCs from Water, Electricity, Sewage, and Telephone departments to prevent damage to utilities.
• Fire Department NOC for construction-stage and post-construction fire safety.
• Structural Stability Certificate from a qualified engineer.
• Traffic Department permission for diversions and safety measures.
The underpass project will remain under scrutiny until authorities justify how work commenced without these clearances, a question that is now central to the case.
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