Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha President Tejasvi Surya has called for the swift implementation of the Karnataka Active Mobility Bill, 2022, in response to the Supreme Court’s recognition of the right to walk on footpaths as a Fundamental Right. Surya emphasized the importance of state authorities taking concrete actions to protect this right and improve pedestrian infrastructure.
The proposed Karnataka Active Mobility Bill, 2022, which garnered significant public support under the previous BJP-led government, is seen as crucial for addressing the inadequate and unsafe footpaths in Bengaluru. Surya highlighted the pressing need to enhance walkable infrastructure to enhance the daily lives of city residents.
Tejasvi Surya urged the Karnataka government to prioritize the enactment of the legislation and enhance pedestrian mobility in Bengaluru. He specifically called on Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda to focus on creating safe and accessible footpaths throughout the city. Strengthening pedestrian infrastructure, according to Surya, is vital for fostering a more inclusive and sustainable urban environment in the state capital.
The Supreme Court’s ruling declaring the right to walk on safe and unobstructed footpaths as a fundamental right underscores the importance of prioritizing pedestrians over motorized vehicles. The court emphasized that cities should prioritize people over vehicles and highlighted the enforceable duty of authorities to construct and maintain footpaths.
