Editor,
The recent observation of the Supreme Court that walking on a demarcated footpath is a fundamental right is a significant step towards protecting pedestrian rights. The ruling was delivered by a Bench comprising Justices PS Narasimha and AS Chandurkar while deciding a motor accident compensation case involving the tragic death of a 5-year-old child who was struck by a vehicle while being taken to school by his father. The Court emphasised that citizens have a fundamental right to use footpaths safely and that the State has a constitutional duty to safeguard this right.
This observation highlights a serious challenge facing urban India. Footpaths are often encroached upon by vendors, parked vehicles and illegal structures, while many are poorly maintained or altogether absent. Consequently pedestrians are forced onto roads increasing their vulnerability to accidents. Such conditions undermine the safety and dignity of citizens.
The Court’s reasoning is rooted in Article 21 of the Constitution which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. Safe mobility is an essential component of a dignified life. The inability to walk safely affects access to education, employment, healthcare and other opportunities, particularly for children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure also contributes to public health and environmental sustainability. Walking promotes physical well-being, reduces dependence on motorised transport, lowers pollution levels and supports sustainable urban development. Therefore footpaths should be viewed not merely as civic amenities but as essential public infrastructure.
The judgment should serve as a wake-up call for governments and municipal authorities. Encroachments must be removed,damaged walkways repaired and pedestrian facilities maintained regularly.Urban planning must adopt a people-centric approach that prioritizes the needs of pedestrians alongside those of motorists.
The Supreme Court has reaffirmed an important constitutional principle, that is that public spaces must be accessible and safe for all citizens. Protecting the right to walk is not merely an administrative responsibility but a constitutional obligation. A truly developed city is one where every citizen can move freely, safely and with dignity.
AC Vineeth Kumar
Thrissur, Kerala
