Maharashtra High Court Orders Compensation For Pothole Deaths: Heirs To Receive Up To ₹6 Lakh, Injured ₹50,000–₹2.5 Lakh
Maharashtra High Court Orders Compensation For Pothole Deaths: Heirs To Receive Up To ₹6 Lakh, Injured ₹50,000–₹2.5 Lakh
Maharashtra, October 14, 2025 – The Maharashtra High Court has reiterated that safe and pothole-free roads are a fundamental right of every citizen. On Monday, the court highlighted the urgent need to compensate victims and their families for accidents caused by potholes and manholes.
The court has directed that heirs of citizens who die in such accidents will receive ₹6 lakh, while compensation for the injured will range from ₹50,000 to ₹2.5 lakh depending on the severity of injuries. The compensation must be distributed within eight weeks from the date the claim is approved.
Every year during the monsoon, roads in the state deteriorate, resulting in large potholes that make travel dangerous for two-wheelers and four-wheelers. These conditions often cause physical injuries, traffic congestion, and significant distress for commuters.
The court further instructed that contractors and officials responsible for poor road conditions will face strict action. Compensation can also be recovered from penalties collected from contractors. In cases where contractors fail to pay, the relevant municipal corporation, district administration, Public Works Department, or authority will recover the funds.
This ruling emphasizes both accountability for road maintenance and timely relief for victims of pothole-related accidents.
