Bhubaneswar: Odisha govt has framed draft rules to improve pedestrian safety across the state, proposing mandatory footpaths, safer crossings, stricter enforcement against encroachments and protection of vulnerable road users. It came in the wake of Supreme Court’s ruling in June that citizens have a “fundamental right to walk” and require safe pedestrian infrastructure.The proposed Odisha Pedestrian Safety Rules-2026 were issued by the commerce and transport department on Thursday, inviting public objections and suggestions for 30 days before finalisation. According to Odisha police data, altogether 735 pedestrians, including 143 women, were killed in accidents in Odisha in 2024.“Under the draft rules, priority will be given to developing pedestrian-friendly zones around schools, hospitals, markets, bus stops, transit terminals, govt offices, pilgrimage and tourist destinations, industrial areas and high-crash locations, besides places where pedestrian deaths or injuries have been reported in the past two to three years,” a senior official said.School zones will have advance warning signs, road markings, speed-limit signs, traffic-calming measures, pedestrian crossings, footpaths, safe waiting areas and regulated pick-up and drop-off points.“The maximum speed in school zones on urban roads and rural built-up roads will ordinarily be capped at 25 kmph. On highways or major rural roads adjoining schools, it may be fixed at up to 40 kmph, subject to traffic-calming measures, warning signs and safe crossings,” the draft rules proposed.The draft also proposes bollards, kerbs and guardrails to prevent vehicles from accessing footpaths, while ensuring that such measures do not hinder wheelchair users. Braille markings will also have to be provided on ramps or stair handrails where applicable. The rules prohibit utilities, landscaping, street furniture, signboards, advertisements and temporary structures from being placed in the clear walking zone.Footpaths will also have to be connected with bus stops, railway stations, transit hubs, public bicycle-sharing stations, cycle stands and other transport facilities to ensure safe first- and last-mile connectivity.The draft rules further mandate that every road project carry a signed declaration from the engineer-in-charge and contractor certifying compliance with pedestrian safety standards.If an investigation establishes that failure by a road-owning agency, contractor or consultant to comply with prescribed design, construction or maintenance standards caused or contributed to a death or disability, action may be initiated against those responsible.