The Supreme Court has praised a Tamil Nadu man for his efforts to build a railway subway in Vaniyambadi, describing his actions as a model of “constructive civic participation.” In a judgment delivered on Tuesday, Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta lauded Madurai Farooq Ahmed for pursuing the issue for years, noting that he sought relief for the community rather than personal gain.
A different standard for public interest litigation
The Court contrasted Ahmed’s persistent efforts with modern writ petitions that often lack genuine public cause. “These days, writ courts are frequently called upon to deal with proceedings styled as public interest litigation which, on closer scrutiny, do not advance any genuine public cause,” the Bench stated in Madurai Farooq Ahmed v. Principal Secretary to Government and Others.
The judges observed that the petitioner had demonstrated how a responsible citizen can force attention to issues affecting a large number of people. “Such constructive civic participation deserves acknowledgment,” the Court added.
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This case stands apart from other PILs that merely use the legal system to seek publicity or personal advantage. It highlights a rare moment where the judiciary recognized an individual’s role in keeping public infrastructure on the agenda for nearly two decades.
Project stalled for nearly 20 years
The dispute centers on a level crossing between Vaniyambadi and Kethandapatti railway stations. The railway line divides the town, and the crossing sees heavy use by residents and commuters daily.
Efforts to resolve the issue began in November 2007 when the Tamil Nadu government granted administrative sanction for a Road Over Bridge (ROB) at an estimated cost of ₹13 crore. The plan was for the State and Southern Railway to share the cost. However, authorities later determined that building a bridge would require acquiring substantial land in a built-up area, driving up expenses significantly.
Consequently, the project design changed. It was first shifted to a Road Under Bridge (RUB) and later settled on a Limited Use Subway. Despite these changes, the project remained stuck in bureaucratic limbo for many years.
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Ahmed approached the Madras High Court in July 2025 seeking directions to expedite the work. The High Court disposed of his petition by noting that continuous judicial monitoring would be required to keep the matter moving.
Before the Supreme Court, Southern Railway informed the Bench that seven bidders had participated in the tender process. The railway stated that its portion of the work could be completed within six months of awarding the contract, provided the State government made the necessary land available.
Given that the project had been under consideration in various forms for almost 20 years, the Supreme Court directed the State to accelerate the pending land acquisition and approvals. Southern Railway was ordered to finish its share within six months of the contract award and land availability. Both the State and the Railway were also told to file compliance affidavits within eight months. Ahmed appeared in person before the Bench to argue his case.
