GUWAHATI: In the bustling city of Guwahati, the issue of footpath encroachment especially in the area of Ulubari has become a growing concern. The rampant parking of two-wheelers on pedestrian walkways disrupts the safety and convenience of city residents.
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This practice not only violates traffic regulations but also poses significant challenges for pedestrians, particularly the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.
Key areas such as Ulubari, GS Road, Pan Bazaar, Fancy Bazaar, and Zoo Road are among the many in the worst affected, where footpaths intended for pedestrian use are often clogged with illegally parked two-wheelers. As a result, many pedestrians are forced to walk on busy roads, increasing the risk of accidents.
Despite repeated public appeals and the presence of traffic police in these areas, enforcement appears inconsistent, allowing this lawlessness to persist.
“How am I meant to walk or commute properly if bikes and scooters are parked? Footpaths are meant for pedestrians, not vehicles. The encroachments show a lack of respect for public spaces,” said Mafhur Rahman, a local of Ulubari, while talking to GPlus.
Another citizen suggested creating designated parking zones and penalizing violators to deter such behaviour.
Talking to GPlus, in this context, a traffic police official said, “We do take several measures to deter such behaviour but many such lapses occur as we cannot be at the watch everytime. Fines are imposed and such behaviour is opposed but citizens still manage to park on footpaths at times. Such has to change only comes from the individual within at times.”
As the year comes to an end and the city develops, ensuring safe and accessible walkways for its residents must become a priority.