The Telangana High Court has issued a stern directive to authorities to take strict action against the illegal occupation of pavements and streets in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The court emphasized that public walkways must remain free from encroachments to ensure the safety of pedestrians. In addition, the court ordered stringent measures against illegal and irregular parking across the city, including vehicles parked on roads in residential areas. Authorities have been instructed to submit a comprehensive status report before the next hearing, scheduled for June 9.
Petition filed by senior citizens
The petition was jointly filed by retired journalist B Surender, advocate Udaya Kumar Madishetty, and homemaker I Balamani, all senior citizens. They argued that the absence of usable pavements has made basic movement within the city unsafe. Pedestrians are often forced to walk on main roads merely to access public transport, including city buses, thereby endangering their lives and violating the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Supreme Court rulings cited
Referring to earlier Supreme Court rulings, the petitioners contended that footpaths are meant exclusively for pedestrians and cannot be occupied for commercial activity or unauthorized parking. In response, authorities submitted that joint enforcement drives are already being conducted by municipal and traffic police departments in compliance with earlier court directions issued in February 2026. Officials assured the court that steps are being taken to remove obstructions and preserve cleared pavements.
Court's observations
Reviewing the submissions, the High Court observed that unauthorized parking and pavement encroachments consume substantial portions of roads and walkways, severely reducing motorable space and causing major public inconvenience. The court remarked that such conditions obstruct public transport operations and leave pedestrians, especially vulnerable groups, with no safe option except navigating dangerous traffic conditions.
State's responsibility emphasized
Emphasizing the responsibility of the state to safeguard public infrastructure, the court directed authorities to ensure regular road maintenance and implement structural safeguards so that footpaths remain fully accessible and usable for pedestrians. The next hearing is scheduled for June 9, where a comprehensive status report on the actions taken is expected to be presented.
