People Welcome HC Order on Footpaths, GHMC Urged to Demarcate Vending Zones

Hyderabad: Residents have welcomed the directions of the Telangana High Court to reclaim encroached footpaths under the GHMC limits in Hyderabad, expressing hope of safer access for pedestrians.

Citizens said several pavements across the city have been encroached upon by commercial establishments, makeshift vendors, eateries and pubs, with some stretches also being used for parking. Areas cited include Banjara Hills, Khairtabad, the stretch from Hyderaguda Road to the Old MLA Quarters, parts of Himayatnagar and main roads in Secunderabad, where footpaths are reportedly obstructed.

Ranjana Rudra, a resident of Sainikpuri, welcomed the court’s direction. “Encroachment of pavements by commercial establishments is forcing pedestrians onto the main roads, increasing the risk of accidents,” she said, adding, “I have been living in Sainikpuri for the past 40 years. The area was originally well planned, with ample space earmarked for pavements. However, with the rise of commercial establishments, the footpaths have gradually been encroached upon. Most pavements are now used for parking. On 5th Avenue, which has seen the maximum encroachments, shops have extended onto the road, making it difficult to walk, cross the street, or even take out our cars from our lanes, as establishments such as Koi n Co have occupied the frontage. A newly opened pub is also using the footpath for parking, while some businesses have placed generators on the pavements. As a result, pedestrians are left with no option but to walk on the main road.”

Forum for Good Governance chairman and retired IFS officer Padmanabha Reddy said the government should implement the central Act on the ‘Right to Street Vendors’. “The government should implement the central legislation, the ;Right of Street Vendors Act’, in letter and spirit. Under this law, civic authorities are required to demarcate areas as no-vending zones, restricted (partial) vending zones, and full vending zones. It is the responsibility of the GHMC to carry out this exercise transparently and systematically. If the civic body takes the process seriously, conducts proper surveys, and issues advance notifications with adequate publicity, it can prevent unnecessary law-and-order issues. At the same time, such planned regulation will protect pedestrian rights while also safeguarding the livelihoods of marginalised vendors by providing them designated spaces to carry out their business lawfully and with dignity.”

The High Court’s directions are expected to guide civic authorities in addressing encroachments while balancing pedestrian access and vendor livelihoods.