Centre must ensure every road has encroachment-free space for walking: Supreme Court
Supreme Court emphasises the need for clear pedestrian pathways, highlighting the fundamental right to walk safely and freely amid increasing urban encroachments
On August 3, 2026, the Supreme Court issued a directive to the Central government, urging it to ensure that every road is equipped with a clearly defined, encroachment-free zone exclusively for pedestrians. A panel comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe directed Additional Solicitor General K.M. Nararaj, representing the Centre, to issue instructions to relevant authorities to maintain unencumbered walking spaces and separate them distinctly from motor vehicle lanes.
The Court emphasized that this separation can be achieved through simple means such as ropes or other non-intrusive methods, ensuring pedestrian safety and freedom of movement. The Bench granted Nararaj two weeks to carry out the necessary measures, stressing the importance of pedestrians' confidence in utilizing these designated areas without fear of vehicle interference.
The matter was subsequently scheduled for a hearing after the stipulated period. Earlier, on June 19, the Supreme Court ruled that the right to walk on a demarcated footpath is a fundamental right, asserting that this right should take precedence over motorized traffic on such paths and is integral to the broader right to movement under Article 19(1)(d) and other fundamental rights, including Article 21.
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