Karnataka HC Refuses to Stay GBA's Safe Footpath Campaign

The Karnataka High Court on Friday refused to stay the Greater Bengaluru Authority's (GBA) Safe Footpath Campaign, observing that pedestrians must have sufficient space to walk on footpaths without obstruction.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice K S Hemalekha was hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by urban strategist R Rajgopalan, who challenged the manner in which the civic campaign was being implemented across Bengaluru.

Appearing in person, Rajgopalan argued before the court that the campaign was being carried out without a clearly defined scope. He raised concerns regarding the manner in which footpaths were being cleared and the lack of follow-up measures after clearance drives.

"The way the clearing of the footpaths is done is an issue and follow-up on the clearance is also an issue," Rajgopalan submitted to the bench.

The High Court Bench, however, found no grounds to interfere with the initiative. The judges noted that the primary purpose of the drive is to facilitate safe and unobstructed movement for the public.

"In so far as the Safe Footpath Campaign is concerned, it is designed to ensure that pedestrians can walk on footpaths and not be obstructed; we find no grounds to interdict the said campaign," the Bench stated.

Responding to the petitioner's arguments, the court further observed that the directive essentially required footpaths across the city to be cleared so that pedestrians are provided adequate walking space.