New Delhi: The fundamental right to walk safely on footpaths has received a major boost after the Supreme Court of India ruled that every citizen has a constitutional right to walk on safe and clearly marked footpaths. The Court said pedestrian rights must come before the convenience of motor vehicles and directed authorities to ensure proper footpath infrastructure across the country.
Walk Safely on Footpaths: Supreme Court’s Landmark Observation
A Bench comprising Justices PS Narasimha and AS Chandurkar held that citizens have a fundamental right to walk on demarcated footpaths. The Court stated that if a road exists, authorities have a duty to provide and maintain safe footpaths for pedestrians.
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According to the judgment, the right to walk safely is linked to:
- Article 19 of the Constitution (Freedom of Movement)
- Article 21 of the Constitution (Right to Life and Personal Liberty)
The Court emphasized that pedestrian safety cannot be ignored in urban planning and road development.
Footpaths Now Seen as a Constitutional Requirement
The Court clarified that public authorities are legally responsible for creating and maintaining pedestrian infrastructure. Key points from the ruling include:
- Safe footpaths are not a luxury but a necessity.
- Pedestrian rights are part of the right to life.
- Motor vehicles cannot take priority over pedestrian safety.
- Governments must ensure accessible and obstruction-free footpaths.
Connection With Earlier Supreme Court Orders
This ruling builds on previous Supreme Court directions regarding pedestrian safety. In 2025, the Court had already recognized unobstructed and disability-friendly footpaths as an important part of Article 21 and directed states and Union Territories to create pedestrian-friendly guidelines. The Court had also stressed:
- Removal of encroachments from footpaths
- Better accessibility for persons with disabilities
- Uniform standards for pedestrian infrastructure nationwide
What is the Importance of Walk Safely on Footpaths Ruling
Millions of Indians use footpaths daily. However, many footpaths are:
- Broken or poorly maintained
- Occupied by parked vehicles
- Blocked by vendors or illegal structures
- Unsafe for children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities
The Supreme Court noted that when footpaths are unavailable, people are forced to walk on roads, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Impact on Cities and Urban Development
Experts believe the judgment could significantly influence:
- Smart city projects
- Urban road design
- Municipal planning policies
- Road safety programs
Local governments may now face greater accountability for unsafe or missing footpaths. The ruling is expected to encourage stricter enforcement against encroachments and improve pedestrian infrastructure across Indian cities.
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