SC calls proper footpaths a constitutional right, asks states, UTs to frame pedestrian-friendly guidelines

The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed all states and union territories to frame guidelines to ensure proper footpaths for pedestrians calling it their constitutional right.

A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan observed in the absence of footpaths pedestrians were forced to walk on roads, making them vulnerable to risks and accidents.

"It is necessary to have proper footpaths for citizens. They should be such that they should be accessible for persons with disabilities and removal of encroachments is mandatory. This court has recognised that the right of pedestrians to use footpaths is guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution," it said.


The top court added, "Right to have footpaths which are unobstructed is certainly an essential characteristic."

The bench, as a result, directed the Centre to place on record within two months its guidelines for protecting the rights of pedestrians.