India's Supreme Court orders pedestrian‑only footpaths on every road

The Supreme Court of India directed the central government to ensure that every road includes a clearly demarcated, encroachment‑free space for pedestrians. A bench comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe instructed Additional Solicitor General K M Nararaj to order the relevant authorities to mark the walkers’ space, using simple measures such as ropes, and to prevent any encroachment. The court gave the centre two weeks to issue these instructions and scheduled a further hearing.

The order follows the court’s June 19 ruling that the right to walk on a demarcated footpath is a fundamental right, prioritized over motor‑vehicle traffic and protected under Articles 19(1)(d) and 21 of the Constitution. The bench emphasized that pedestrians must be able to walk confidently without threat from moving vehicles.