In a major move, Chanakyapuri’s sub-divisional magistrate has directed the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) to ensure footpaths in the area are at least six feet wide to allow two wheelchairs to pass simultaneously without any difficulty. The SDM has also directed that the footpaths should be clear of any obstructions, trees, pole or wire etc., and their ends should have a gradual slope to allow a self-driven wheelchair ascend and descend without any difficulty.
Chankyapuri’s SDM Aman Gupta directed the NDMC that all footpaths should have continuous tactile paths to allow visually-impaired pedestrians to negotiate their way without difficulty. “The NDMC must ensure that all footpaths are in good condition at all time,” Mr Gupta ordered.
The orders were issued after the SDM found that footpaths have been encroached upon and at certain locations, footpaths do not exists or are two narrow for proper use, or unsuitable or need urgent repair.
The order noted that non-availability of footpaths, free of encroachment/ obstructions/ etc., for use by pedestrians causes unnecessary inconvenience to them and they are forced to walk on roads which results in safety hazard due to vehicular traffic.
Concerned with pedestrian safety, Mr Gupta ordered that all the maintenance works to be carried out on footpaths or beside them should be carried out after barricading the area properly to ensure that no person can inadvertently enter the area of work. “Also, a safe temporary passage for pedestrian should be provided as an alternative to the footpath under maintenance. It shall be the responsibility of the police and the NDMC to ensure compliance of this order,” the order added.
Acting tough against people who park their vehicle on footpaths, the SDM directed the police/ traffic police to take immediate action against those flout the rules under the Motor Vehicle Act and rules against offenders.
Talking about the encroachment of footpath, which is a common sight across the city, the Chankyapuri’s SDM directed the NDMC to remove all unauthorised encroachment in the interest of public safety and the right of way of the public. “Action under Section 188 of the IPC shall be initiated against any person who refuses to abide by this order,” added the order.
