The Supreme Court of India directed the central government on Monday to ensure that dedicated, clear pedestrian pathways are created alongside all roads across the country. A bench comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe mandated that walking spaces must be visibly separated from lanes intended for motorized traffic and kept free from illegal obstructions.
Appearing for the Centre, Additional Solicitor General K M Nataraj was instructed by the bench to issue directives to relevant executive authorities. The court noted that major capital investments or structural additions are unnecessary, suggesting that simple measures such as rope barriers can effectively demarcate pedestrian zones. The bench emphasized that citizens must feel confident while walking on public thoroughfares, without facing threats from moving vehicles.
Two-Week Timeline for Executive Compliance
The apex court granted the central government a two-week window to issue the necessary instructions to local authorities. The bench scheduled the matter for its next hearing in two weeks to review progress.
Constitutional Protection for Pedestrians
This direction follows a landmark verdict delivered by the Supreme Court on June 19, which established that walking on a demarcated footpath constitutes a fundamental right. In that judgment, the court held that pedestrian rights take precedence over motorized transport on designated footpaths, grounding the protection under Article 19(1)(d), which guarantees freedom of movement, and Article 21, which protects the right to life and personal liberty.
