Right to walk safely: SC orders Centre to ensure pedestrian walkways, reaffirms it as fundamental right

The Supreme Court of India has mandated the central government to establish demarcated and encroachment-free pedestrian zones along all roadways, emphasizing the fundamental right to walk safely. A bench comprising Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe instructed Additional Solicitor General KM Nararaj to ensure proper separation of walkers' space from motor vehicle lanes.

The court stressed the importance of immediate action, requesting the government to provide instructions to relevant authorities within two weeks. The bench clarified that the right to walk on demarcated footpaths is a constitutional duty, taking precedence over motorized vehicles and forming a part of the right to movement under Article 21.

The court's decision stems from a motor accident case where a child was hit by a tanker on a road. The judgment also highlights the responsibility of urban development authorities, municipal corporations, municipalities, and panchayats to construct, maintain, and safeguard pedestrian infrastructure. Violations of this right will entitle citizens to seek constitutional and legal remedies, separate from those available under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1998.