In a pivotal judgment, the Supreme Court of India has underscored that the determination of speed limits on roads, national highways, and expressways falls within the purview of governmental authorities and technical experts, not the judiciary. This decision overturns a prior Madras High Court ruling that had annulled a 2018 government notification increasing speed limits on certain roadways.
Background of the Case
The controversy originated from a 2018 notification by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which raised speed limits on expressways from 100 km/h to 120 km/h. This adjustment was based on assessments of improved road infrastructure and vehicular technology. However, the Madras High Court, in response to a motor accident claim, quashed this notification, directing a reversion to the earlier speed limits. The High Court’s decision was influenced by concerns over road safety and the prevalence of accidents due to speeding.
Supreme Court’s Rationale
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan emphasized that setting speed limits is a specialized function involving technical evaluations best conducted by experts in the field. The Court stated, “For an unfortunate incident, courts cannot reduce the speed limit for vehicles on roads, national highways, and expressways. We can’t slow down the country like this.” This pronouncement highlights the judiciary’s recognition of its boundaries concerning policy decisions that require technical expertise.
Implications for Road Safety and Policy
The Supreme Court’s ruling delineates the roles of the judiciary and the executive in matters of road safety and infrastructure management. By affirming the government’s authority to set speed limits, the Court acknowledges the importance of expert assessments in policy formulation. This decision is expected to influence future deliberations on road safety measures, balancing the need for efficient transportation with the imperative of minimizing accidents.
Government’s Position on Speed Limits
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has previously advocated for higher speed limits on expressways, suggesting an increase to 140 km/h, citing advancements in road design and vehicle safety features. He noted that while the government is in favor of such increases, judicial decisions have necessitated a more cautious approach. The Supreme Court’s recent judgment may provide the government with greater latitude to implement these proposed changes, aligning speed regulations with contemporary infrastructure capabilities.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s affirmation of executive authority in setting speed limits underscores the necessity of technical expertise in policy decisions affecting public safety and infrastructure. This judgment not only clarifies the separation of powers but also sets a precedent for future cases where judicial intervention in technical matters may be contemplated. As India continues to develop its road networks, this decision facilitates a more nuanced approach to balancing rapid transportation needs with safety considerations.
