In Telangana, the right to walk derailed by design
Despite a Supreme Court ruling recognizing the 'Right to Walk' as a fundamental right, pedestrians in Hyderabad face significant infrastructure obstacles. The article argues that urban planning in Telangana must prioritize pedestrian safety over motorized vehicle convenience.
Why it matters
The conflict between rapid urban development and pedestrian rights is a growing issue in major cities, impacting public health and urban accessibility.
You step out of a Metro station in Hyderabad and set off on a routine one-kilometre walk. Within minutes, the footpath disappears beneath a succession of obstacles. Parked SUVs block the way and broken pavement demands careful footing while poles, cable wires, signboards and construction material crowd the route. At several points, pedestrians are left choosing between negotiating the clutter and stepping into road traffic.
The article advocates for policy changes and prioritizes social rights over infrastructure development, which is a common progressive urban planning stance.
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