NHAI to build pedestrian paths along highways after SC ruling
In a move to enhance pedestrian safety, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will soon construct pedestrian paths along inhabited stretches of national highways. This follows a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming that pedestrian rights to footpaths are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Several highways in Himachal Pradesh are being expanded, and the Parwanoo-Kaithlighat stretch of National Highway-5, which is largely complete, is among the first where pedestrian paths could be planned. This 61-km route passes through key habitations such as Jabli, Dharampur, Kumarhatti, Rabon, Chambaghat, Salogra, Kandaghat, Waknaghat and Kaithlighat. These areas witness high pedestrian traffic, especially from students due to the presence of educational institutions in places like Waknaghat, Kandaghat and Sanwara.
Anand Dahiya, Project Director of NHAI Shimla, confirmed that surveys will be conducted to identify appropriate locations for constructing pedestrian paths, in line with the apex court’s directions. He emphasized that pedestrian safety is a priority and space for these paths will be identified even in hilly areas where land availability is a challenge.
Highlighting the urgency, a tragic accident in March 2023 near Dharampur claimed five lives and injured four others when a speeding SUV hit migrant labourers walking to work. Authorities believe such incidents can be avoided through the provision of safe walkways.
To address safety concerns, 11 foot over bridges have already been built along the Parwanoo-Kaithlighat section, despite not being part of the original highway plan. These were added later after reviewing pedestrian safety needs. Similarly, the new pedestrian paths will be designed even if space constraints exist, with narrower footpaths being considered where necessary.
Other national highways such as Pinjore-Baddi-Nalagarh, Shimla-Mataur, Chandigarh-Manali, and Paonta Sahib-Shillai-Gumma will also be equipped with pedestrian facilities as their construction progresses.
With these measures, NHAI aims to significantly improve road safety and prevent further loss of life due to the lack of pedestrian infrastructure.
