SC Directs to Frame Guidelines for Proper Footpaths

On 14th May 2025, Supreme Court said absence of footpaths endangers lives, directs all states and UTs to ensure obstruction-free, accessible pedestrian pathways.

Key Points

SC Ruling: A bench of Justices emphasised that proper, accessible footpaths are a fundamental right under Article 21.
State Responsibility: All states and UTs must frame guidelines to ensure safe, encroachment-free, disabled-friendly footpaths.
Why It Matters: Pedestrians walking on roads due to lack of footpaths face high accident risk.
Central Directive: Centre must submit policies protecting pedestrian rights and file a compliance report.
Next Steps: Matter listed for hearing on August 1, 2025.
Deadline Set: Centre has six months to constitute a National Road Safety Board; no further extensions will be granted.
Background: Order passed in response to a petition on pedestrian safety and footpath encroachments.