Maharashtra bans illegal dhabas, hotels on highway right of way

In the Indian state of Maharashtra, there are big roads called National Highways.

Next to these roads, the government keeps a strip of land called the Right of Way so the road has space and stays safe.

Sometimes people build small restaurants called dhabas, hotels, and shops on this land without permission.

The Maharashtra government said these unapproved buildings must be taken down.

Local city offices and district officials have 60 days to remove them.

The government also said nobody can build new dhabas, eateries, or shops on this land.

This is because India's highest court, the Supreme Court, gave directions to clear this land.

The court was looking at an accident case called Phalodi Accident versus NHAI.

Now, new shop licences near highways will need special permission from highway authorities first.

Specially formed safety teams will also check the roads regularly to keep them clear and safe.