Telangana High Court Orders Action on Illegal Parking and Footpath Encroachments in Hyderabad

Traffic congestion and shrinking pedestrian space have once again come under the spotlight in Hyderabad and several towns across Telangana after the Telangana High Court expressed serious concern over worsening civic conditions. The court directed officials to take immediate measures to clear encroachments from roads and footpaths and strengthen efforts to prevent them from returning.

During the hearing, the court observed that many pedestrians, particularly senior citizens, are finding it increasingly difficult to walk safely due to blocked footpaths, rising traffic, and unplanned parking. The court stressed that public spaces meant for pedestrians cannot continue to be occupied or misused.

The issue reached the High Court after a petition was filed by Hyderabad based senior citizen Surender along with two others. The petition highlighted poor road conditions, garbage filled pavements, illegal parking along roadsides, and increasing encroachments on footpaths in several urban areas. Petitioners argued that these conditions were creating daily difficulties for the public.

The counsel representing the petitioners reminded the court of earlier observations that footpaths are meant for public use and not for unauthorized occupation. Concerns were also raised regarding roadside vehicles and temporary structures reducing space for pedestrians.

Responding to the court, the civic authorities stated that special drives had already been launched following earlier directions issued in February. Officials informed the court that teams from GHMC, traffic police, and other government departments are jointly conducting operations to clear illegal occupations from roads and pavements.

After hearing both sides, the High Court instructed authorities to intensify the ongoing drives and ensure that cleared areas are not occupied again. The court also directed traffic officials and civic authorities to take stronger action on parking management and submit a detailed report explaining the measures taken. The matter has now been postponed for the next hearing on June 9.