No More Walking on Roads: SC Says Footpaths Are a Basic Right
New Delhi, 15th May 2025: The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed all states and Union Territories to implement clear guidelines to construct and maintain pedestrian-friendly footpaths, emphasizing that accessible and obstruction-free walkways are essential to the right to life and dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution.
A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan stated, “Every citizen has the right to a safe walking space. Footpaths must be designed to accommodate all, including persons with disabilities. Encroachments cannot be allowed to violate this basic right.”
The court expressed concern over the widespread lack of functional footpaths in Indian cities, which forces pedestrians to risk their safety by walking on roads. “This not only compromises safety but also violates the fundamental right to move freely and safely,” the bench observed.
The judges stressed that all public roads must be equipped with proper walkways and that these pathways must be constructed and maintained to be usable by people with disabilities.
In its order, the court asked the central government to submit, within two months, its national guidelines aimed at safeguarding pedestrian rights. Additionally, it granted six months to the Union government to address the formation of a National Road Safety Board as outlined in the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act.
The bench underlined the importance of making footpaths inclusive and ensuring that unauthorized structures are promptly cleared. “Municipal bodies and civic authorities must treat the creation and upkeep of accessible pedestrian infrastructure as a constitutional obligation,” it added.
