Footpaths meant to ensure safe movement for pedestrians, now are increasingly being misused by the bikers, turning them into risky zones instead of secure walkways. Two-wheelers are frequently seen riding and parking on footpaths to avoid traffic, forcing people to step onto busy roads. The problem has become a daily concern for residents of Rahate Colony and Bajaj Nagar, especially during peak hours. “This is not a footpath anymore, it feels like an extension of the road,” said Vikas Sharma, a resident of Rahate Colony. Pedestrians say bikers often behave as if the space belongs to park their vehicles. “Bikers honk at us as while we walk peacefully at the footpaths, as if we are in their way. It is unsafe and frustrating,” said Neha Sawarkar. Bikers encroach footpaths Students coming from the nearby metro station say that they don’t feel safe to walk on footpaths.

 

“We have to constantly watch out for bikes even on the footpath. It should not to be like this,” said a student. People also complain that they have seen bikers yelling and fighting with pedestrians for coming in their way, which does not make any sense. Senior citizens are also affected. Suresh Patil, expressed the threats towards elderly, “An old man in our area was brushed by a bike and fell. Thankfully, he did not get any serious injury but it could have been worse.” Assurance by traffic department: When ‘The Hitavada’ contacted Lohit Matani, DCP, Traffic, he assured that he will look into the matter and take action. Locals believe that such incidents are happening due to lack of strict monitoring. “Every one or the other biker is riding on the footpath, which is a serious issue. If bikers take over pedestrians’ space, where will the people walk?” said Imran Shaikh. With the growing incidents, residents are now demanding action to prevent bikers from turning footpaths into accident zones.