Footpaths across Guwahati are increasingly being used for parking, vending and even as shortcut lanes for two-wheelers, leaving little space for pedestrians. A recent ground report highlights how designated walking spaces in several parts of the city have shrunk due to multiple forms of encroachment.
The situation has raised concerns about pedestrian safety, accessibility for the elderly and differently-abled persons, and overall urban planning enforcement.
Footpaths in Guwahati are being widely used for parking, vending and two-wheeler movement, reducing space for pedestrians. A ground report across key city areas found shrinking walking zones, raising concerns over safety and enforcement of civic rules.
What the Ground Report Found
Observations from multiple localities show that footpaths are frequently occupied by:
- Parked two-wheelers and cars
- Street vendors and temporary stalls
- Construction materials
- Two-wheelers using pavements as bypass lanes
In busy commercial zones such as GS Road, Paltan Bazaar, Fancy Bazaar and parts of Zoo Road, pedestrians are often forced onto the main carriageway due to blocked pavements.
Safety Concerns for Pedestrians
With limited walking space, pedestrians, including schoolchildren, senior citizens and persons with disabilities, are compelled to share roads with moving traffic.
Urban planners note that uninterrupted footpaths are essential for safe and sustainable city mobility. When these spaces are encroached upon, the risk of accidents increases.
Residents in several neighbourhoods said that footpath obstructions are more visible during peak hours, especially in market areas.
Why Is This Happening?
Multiple factors contribute to the issue:
- Limited designated parking zones
- High vehicle density in commercial areas
- Informal vending activities
- Inadequate monitoring and enforcement
In some stretches, newly constructed footpaths have been narrowed by temporary installations or commercial spillovers.
Civic Enforcement and Responsibility
While municipal authorities periodically conduct drives to remove encroachments, the issue often resurfaces within days.
Traffic police and the Guwahati Municipal Corporation are responsible for regulating parking and managing public spaces, but sustained monitoring remains a challenge.
Urban experts suggest that long-term solutions may include clearly demarcated vending zones, stricter parking enforcement and better urban design.
Why It Matters for Guwahati
As Assam’s largest city, Guwahati is witnessing rapid urbanisation and rising vehicle numbers.
Ensuring pedestrian-friendly infrastructure is crucial for reducing congestion, improving safety and promoting sustainable transport practices.
Accessible footpaths are particularly important near schools, hospitals, markets and public transport stops.
What Happens Next?
Authorities may review enforcement strategies and urban mobility plans in light of recurring complaints.
Public awareness and compliance will also play a key role in ensuring that footpaths are used for their intended purpose, safe pedestrian movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Guwahati’s footpaths encroached?
Footpaths are often occupied by parked vehicles, vendors and construction materials, reducing space for pedestrians.
Who is responsible for managing footpath encroachments?
The Guwahati Municipal Corporation and traffic police oversee the regulation of public spaces and parking enforcement.
