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Andhra Pradesh Declares Footpaths Solely for Pedestrians, First State to Do So
✍️ thedraftworld.com
🗓 23 Aug 2026, 10:48 PM
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The Andhra Pradesh government announced that footpaths are exclusively for walkers, marking the first such policy in India.
The state government of Andhra Pradesh issued a formal declaration that all footpaths within its jurisdiction are to be used only by pedestrians. This move makes Andhra Pradesh the first Indian state to adopt a policy that explicitly reserves sidewalks for walkers.
Officials said the decision aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, reduce encroachments by vendors and vehicles, and promote walking as a sustainable mode of transport. The directive will be communicated to municipal bodies, law‑enforcement agencies, and the public.
Implementation guidelines are expected to be drafted, outlining penalties for violations and measures to keep sidewalks clear. Authorities anticipate that the policy will improve urban mobility and encourage healthier, more walkable cities.
Stakeholders, including local businesses and commuters, have been urged to cooperate as the state rolls out the new pedestrian‑first framework over the coming weeks.
Officials said the decision aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, reduce encroachments by vendors and vehicles, and promote walking as a sustainable mode of transport. The directive will be communicated to municipal bodies, law‑enforcement agencies, and the public.
Implementation guidelines are expected to be drafted, outlining penalties for violations and measures to keep sidewalks clear. Authorities anticipate that the policy will improve urban mobility and encourage healthier, more walkable cities.
Stakeholders, including local businesses and commuters, have been urged to cooperate as the state rolls out the new pedestrian‑first framework over the coming weeks.