Infrastructure for Pedestrians

The question asked the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to state whether the government has noted the Supreme Court's recognition of the right to walk, if it plans to enact laws for safe footpaths, and to provide details on pedestrian infrastructure, financial assistance, and fatality statistics on National Highways.

Asked by Shri Manish Tewari and Smt. Sajda Ahmed; Answered by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Minister Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari).

• The government regulates motor vehicles under the Motor Vehicles Act and is responsible for National Highways (NHs).
• State Governments are empowered under Section 138 of the Motor Vehicles Act to make rules for pedestrian access and prohibit motor vehicle use on footpaths.
• Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines IRC:103-2022 'Guidelines for Pedestrian Facilities' are published and entail 'universal accessibility'.
• Pedestrian infrastructure (underpasses, foot-over bridges, crossings, footpaths) is provided on NHs as part of improvement works or stand-alone projects based on site requirements and audits.
• Regular safety audits are conducted on NHs at design, construction, and pre-opening stages.
• The government provides budgetary support for NH projects, including pedestrian infrastructure components.
• Annexures provide State/UT-wise data on total road fatalities (2020-2024) and pedestrian fatalities specifically on National Highways (2020-2024).

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