Drive to free pavements, ensure pedestrian safety

Silchar: The Silchar municipal board has launched a robust drive against footpath encroachments across the city to restore public spaces and ensure pedestrian safety. The civic body has implemented strict measures to restore pedestrian access in response to growing concerns about blocked walkways in busy localities including Central Road, Nazirpatty, Rangirkhari, Hospital Road, and Sonai Road.
The initiative has been active over recent days, following complaints from citizens and pedestrians in this city of over 350,000 residents, which stands as Assam's second-largest urban centre after Guwahati.
"The encroachments, primarily instigated by shopkeepers extending their enterprises onto the footpaths, pose considerable safety risks, particularly for children and elderly citizens. With walkways impeded, pedestrians are frequently compelled to traverse busy roads, heightening the likelihood of accidents. Recognizing the seriousness of the matter, the Silchar municipal board has commenced announcements throughout the town, reminding residents and business owners of the critical importance of keeping footpaths unobstructed. Concurrently, a gradual eviction process is being implemented," said a senior municipal official.
"Those repeatedly found in violation of these regulations will incur strict penalties, including fines. The authorities have underscored that preserving clear walkways is not merely a matter of civic responsibility but also an essential right for pedestrians who are entitled to unimpeded access to public spaces," the official further said.
Dilip Kumar Dey, a senior citizen and retired educator, said he has frequently lodged complaints regarding these encroachments via social media. "Silchar is deficient in proper footpaths. Where they do exist, they are overtaken by shopkeepers and vendors, rendering them unusable for pedestrians who are thus compelled to risk their lives navigating through congested roads," he lamented.
Sujit Das, a fruit vendor operating in Club Road area of Silchar, expressed his perspective, stating they need to conduct business near the footpath for their livelihood. "We are amenable to vacating the space. However, the govt should provide us with a designated area to sustain our business," he asserted.
The municipal officials emphasise that success requires unified support, calling for cooperation from business owners and residents to create safer and more accessible streets in the town.