Delhi HC: Citizens' Interest Paramount, Not Contractor's in Expressway Delay

• Delhi High Court allowed NHAI to terminate the contract of Roadways Solutions India Infra Limited (RSIIL) for delaying a 35 km stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway.
• The court emphasized that citizens cannot be deprived of well-built roads and smooth traffic due to contractor delays.
• NHAI can now appoint another agency to complete Package No. 8 of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, rejecting RSIIL's plea for more time.
• The High Court lifted a stay previously imposed by a single judge bench on NHAI's contract termination notice issued on December 23.
• While NHAI can proceed with termination and re-tendering, it cannot encash RSIIL's bank guarantee or insurance bond until the company's petition before the single judge is decided.

Why It Matters: Delhi HC prioritizes public interest over contractor's, allowing NHAI to terminate contract for expressway delays.