NEW DELHI (Metro Rail & Steel): The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to the Delhi government on Tuesday, emphasizing the necessity for complete compliance with its order regarding the allocation of funds for the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) project. The Court firmly stated that any partial compliance would not be acceptable, and adherence to the specified schedule is imperative. The RRTS project encompasses the development of semi-high speed rail corridors linking Delhi to Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, Alwar in Rajasthan, and Panipat in Haryana. During the proceedings, the apex court highlighted the discrepancy wherein the Delhi government allocated a budget of Rs 580 crore for advertisements, but hesitated to allocate Rs 400 crore, the amount owed for the RRTS project.
“Justification is lacking as to why budgetary provisions haven’t been made. There’s a budgetary provision of Rs 580 crore for advertisements, but not Rs 400 crore, which is supposed to be paid,” remarked a bench comprising justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia. The Court was apprised that the Delhi government had released Rs 415 crore in accordance with the sanction order dated November 24, 2023. However, concerns were raised regarding the transfer of this amount to the account of the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC).
The bench clarified, “The sanction order itself specifies ‘partial compliance,’ which is not acceptable. Full compliance must occur as scheduled. The next hearing is scheduled for December 7.” Earlier, on July 24, the Supreme Court had reprimanded the Delhi government for its reluctance to contribute its share towards the RRTS corridor, directing the release of Rs 415 crore within two months. In the recent hearing, the bench addressed the issue raised in an application, pointing out that the Delhi government seemed insistent on sourcing all funds exclusively from environmental funds, thereby impeding progress on the project.
