Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Human Rights Commission (HRC) on Wednesday directed local authorities to establish a committee to address complaints regarding illegal billboards and vehicles encroaching on footpaths. The Commission emphasised that people's right to safe movement on roads and footpaths must not be compromised.

Justice Alexander Thomas, chairperson of the State Human Rights Commission, stated that the committee should include officials from the municipality, police, and public works departments. He added that it should convene monthly to ensure strict action against violators of the law and footpath encroachments.

This directive was issued in response to a complaint from Nidheesh Philip, a person with visual impairment, highlighting the challenges posed by footpath encroachments.

The Commission urged authorities to remain vigilant in addressing these issues, reported PTI. It noted that despite directives from the Kerala High Court and the Commission, complaints about obstructions to free movement on footpaths persist.

In a report submitted to the Commission, the District Police Chief stated that police assistance is being provided to municipal teams handling footpath encroachment complaints, and fines are imposed on vehicles parked on footpaths.

The police further informed the Commission that station house officers have been instructed to raise awareness about the risks posed by arches and structures erected by political parties on public roads and roadsides.