'Footpaths integral to human life': SC seeks response of states, UTs on encroachment-free footpaths
The apex court had emphasised that pedestrians should have confidence that the space is meant for them and they can walk freely without any threat of moving vehicles
The Supreme Court emphasized on Monday (August 24, 2026) that footpaths are an integral part of human life and directed all states and Union Territories to respond to its implementation of directions for encroachment-free pedestrian spaces. A Bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe imploed all states and UTs as parties in a suo motu case on ensuring properly demarcated footpaths.
The court stressed the confidence of safety in walking and mandated proper demarcation of pedestrian spaces wherever there are roads. The Additional Solicitor General, representing the Centre, informed the Bench that the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, and the National Highways Authority of India have issued advisories to all states and UTs for creating proper demarcated spaces for pedestrians, in compliance with the court's directions.
The court asked the states and UTs to reply to these advisories, reiterating the importance of footpaths being integral to human life.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
