The Supreme Court's landmark ruling that walking on footpaths is a fundamental right has drawn praise from Lucknow residents, who are now demanding that civic authorities remove encroachments and implement the order without delay. A ground reality check by TOI in areas such as Gomti Nagar, Indira Nagar, Badshah Nagar, Nishatganj, and Hazratganj revealed widespread violations, including encroachments, illegal parking, and damaged footpaths.
Residents Voice Concerns Over Persistent Issues
Residents across these localities expressed frustration that these problems have persisted for years. Rakesh Verma, a Gomti Nagar resident, said, “Authorities should work on removing encroachments and ensure footpaths are cleared for safe walking in the city.” Similarly, Prithika Garbyal from Indira Nagar noted that walking has become impossible as footpaths are fully occupied by shops and parked two-wheelers, leaving no dedicated space for pedestrians.
Arshad Alam, a resident of Badshah Nagar, highlighted the lack of response from authorities: “Despite complaining to LMC five times in six months, no action is taken, and footpaths remain blocked, forcing pedestrians onto roads and creating safety risks.” Siya Sharma from Nishatganj added that footpaths are blocked across the area, with shop extensions, vendors, parked vehicles, poles, transformers, and hoardings occupying pedestrian paths, contributing to rising inconvenience and road safety risks, including frequent accidents.
Authorities Also Contribute to Encroachments
Hazratganj resident Pranav Kesarwani pointed out that even authorities are part of the problem: “In many locations, encroachments include vehicles parked or dumped by authorities themselves outside police stations and chowkis. Footpaths are obstructed, forcing pedestrians onto roads inches away from traffic, putting elderly and children at risk.”
Civic Body Responds
When contacted, the additional municipal commissioner stated that the civic body conducts regular drives to clear encroachments from footpaths. He added that preventing their return is the police's responsibility. “We will follow the SC’s directions and ensure footpaths remain clear for pedestrians,” he said.
