GovernanceGS-IGS-III· 1 min read
Odisha Pedestrian Safety Rules, 2026
Why in news?
The Odisha government has proposed new rules mandating pedestrian paths on new and existing roads to enhance pedestrian safety and non-motorized transport facilities.
Key points
- Mandatory pedestrian paths for all new road construction, widening, improvement, and upgradation works.
- Continuous footpaths required on both sides of urban arterial and sub-arterial roads, high-footfall corridors, and major roads passing through inhabited areas.
- Prescribes action against road owning agencies, contractors, or consultants for faulty designs causing pedestrian injury or death.
- Priority given to school zones, hospitals, markets, bus stops, and high-crash locations.
Background & context
Urban planning and infrastructure development often overlook pedestrian needs, leading to safety concerns. This initiative by Odisha aims to integrate pedestrian facilities into the road development process, aligning with principles of sustainable urban mobility.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The rules mandate inclusion of pedestrian and NMT facilities at the design and DPR stage.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Urbanization, impact on the environment and the economy; GS Paper III: Infrastructure, Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation.