Demarcate Footpaths So That Walkers Have Encroachment-Free Space : Supreme Court To Authorities

The Supreme Court today(August 3) directed that the governments must ensure that there is proper demarcation so that walkers have footpaths which are free from encroachments. 

A bench comprising Justice PS Narasimha and Justice Alok Aradhe was hearing a suo moto case regarding the right to access safe and well-demarcated footpaths. In its June 19th order, the Court held that the right to walk on demarcated footpaths is a fundamental right and issued a slew of directions.

Today, when the matter was taken up, the bench adjourned it for two weeks. But it suggested that Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj instruct all authorities to demarcate footpaths for the walkers. Justice Narasimha stated that this direction wouldn't require any investment.

He said: "It's more about demarcation. Local bodies are aware of it. Demarcating doesn't require investment or reconstruction. Just demarcate...If there is a road, there has to be a walkers' space. There must be confidence for the person who is walking that this is the road I am walking. That confidence is necessary, and the culture must be developed so far as walkers' space is concerned, must be sacred and can't be encroached upon. That is the principle you must instruct all urban authorities."

Case Details: IN RE: FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT TO WALK AND FOOTPATH BY COURTS MOTION Versus MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN AFFAIRS|5, 18 W.P.(C) No. 844/2026 PIL-W