14 July,2026 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
According to the railway administration, recent inspections have revealed that several buildings and other structures have been constructed within 30 metres of railway land without obtaining the mandatory NOC. Representational pic
The Central Railway has reiterated that obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the railway administration is mandatory before undertaking any construction within 30 metres of railway land. The directive has been issued in view of a rise in unauthorised constructions near railway land, particularly along proposed railway project corridors.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the Central Railway said the requirement is in accordance with the Railway Board's letter dated June 25, 2015, and the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR).
According to the railway administration, recent inspections have revealed that several buildings and other structures have been constructed within 30 metres of railway land without obtaining the mandatory NOC. Officials said the increase in such constructions during the ongoing land acquisition process has become a matter of serious concern.
The railway administration warned that unauthorised construction in the vicinity of railway land could adversely affect the timely execution of railway infrastructure projects, delay land acquisition proceedings, and lead to disputes over compensation and eligibility.
To document the existing status of land and prevent future disputes, the Central Railway said it is conducting drone and video surveys along the project corridors. These surveys are intended to create an accurate record of land conditions before any recent construction activity and will serve as a reference during the implementation of railway projects.
The Central Railway has urged citizens not to undertake any new construction within 30 metres of railway land without first obtaining an NOC from the competent railway authority.
It cautioned that any construction carried out without prior approval will be treated as unauthorised and dealt with in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations.
The railway administration further clarified that structures built without the mandatory NOC will not be considered for compensation during land acquisition. Any expenditure incurred on such construction will be entirely at the risk and cost of the concerned individual.
It also stated that the railways will not be responsible for any financial loss, demolition, denial of compensation or any other consequences arising from unauthorised construction near railway land.
The Central Railway has also appealed to gram panchayats, municipal councils, planning authorities, and other local bodies not to grant building permissions or approve development proposals within 30 metres of railway land without first verifying that the applicant has obtained the mandatory Railway NOC.
The railway administration said cooperation from local authorities is essential to ensure smooth execution of railway infrastructure projects and to avoid disputes during land acquisition.
Reiterating that the projects are being undertaken in the larger public interest, the Central Railway appealed to citizens to refrain from carrying out any unauthorised construction or development activity near railway land and to comply with the prescribed regulations before commencing any work.
