Centre must ensure every road has encroachment-free space for walking: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court of India has directed the Centre to ensure that all roads have properly demarcated, encroachment-free spaces for pedestrians. The court emphasized that the right to walk on a footpath is a fundamental right that should take priority over motorized traffic.
Why it matters
This ruling reinforces pedestrian safety and urban planning rights, potentially forcing significant changes in how Indian cities manage road space and infrastructure.
The Supreme Court on Monday (August 3, 2026) directed the Centre to ensure that wherever there is a road, there is a properly demarcated, encroachment-free space for pedestrians.
Comment | Reclaiming footpaths for people
A Bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe asked Additional Solicitor General K.M. Nararaj, appearing for the Centre, to instruct the authorities concerned to make sure that the space meant for walking is not encroached upon and is properly separated from motor vehicle lanes.
“Without any big investment and construction, just ensure that proper demarcation is done of walkers’ space. Wherever there is a road, there should be a walkers’ space. Do it with a rope or anything and ensure it is not encroached,” the Bench told Mr. Nataraj.
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