Ranchi: Envisioned as a safe corridor for pedestrians along the busy Main Road in the city, the 400-metre-long walkway launched by traffic police is increasingly turning into an informal parking zone for two-wheelers.The walkway, developed on a pilot basis in Dec last year, aims to ease pedestrian movement and curb jaywalking in crowded market areas. However, most of it is now lined with scooters and motorcycles parked at several points, especially during evening rush hours.Pedestrians, instead of using the dedicated stretch, are often forced to walk on the already congested carriageway amid moving vehicles, raising concerns over road safety and traffic management. The problem is particularly visible near shops where customers, delivery agents and shop employees leave their vehicles on the pathway for quick access to stores.“People now treat the walkway like an extension of the parking area. During peak hours, it becomes almost impossible to walk there,” said Amit Kumar, a commuter who travels through Main Road.Local traders said that a lack of organized parking space has contributed to the issue. “There is heavy footfall in the market and customers want to park their vehicles close to shops. But allowing vehicles to park on pedestrian space is not a solution,” said Suresh Agarwal, a shop owner near Firayalal Chowk.Residents said the encroachment has also reduced accessibility for the elderly, children and disabled pedestrians. “The walkway was supposed to make movement safer, especially for senior citizens. Instead, people are being forced to walk between vehicles,” said Sunita Verma, a resident of Upper Bazaar.Traffic officials said that enforcement drives are being planned to clear the walkway. SP (traffic) Rakesh Singh said that regular enforcement drives are being conducted against unauthorized bike parking on the pedestrian walkway, with violators being issued challans.“Additional personnel will be deployed to ensure that no-parking norms are followed on the walkway. We will also sensitize shopkeepers and local stakeholders so that the pedestrian space is not misused,” he said.
