Pedestrian paths in Kochi misused by motorcyclists, putting walkers at risk

Kochi: Pedestrian paths along major roads in Kochi, including Sahodaran Ayyappan Road, were built at a cost of several crores of rupees. Yet, reckless motorcyclists using these paths are now posing a serious threat to walkers.
The situation has become so alarming that pedestrians are often forced to step off the footpaths to make way for speeding two-wheelers.

At busy junctions such as Kadavanthra, Panampilly Nagar, and Vyttila, it has become a common sight to see motorcycles veering onto footpaths whenever traffic slows down. Riders, who usually keep to the left side of the road, take advantage of gaps to slip into pedestrian zones, leaving no safe space for walkers and raising the risk of accidents.

The problem is equally rampant on footpaths along the Venduruthy and Alexander Parambithara bridges in West Kochi during gridlocks. Disturbingly, little action has been taken by authorities to curb this unauthorised and dangerous practice.
As part of its non-motorised transport initiatives, Kochi Metro Rail Limited has constructed well-paved footpaths on several stretches. Bollards have also been installed at many points to prevent vehicles from entering.

However, entrances near junctions and roadside shops remain slanted, making them easy for motorcyclists to access. Many riders exploit these openings to bypass traffic signals, particularly during peak morning and evening hours. Some even treat the footpaths as an extension of the road, showing scant regard for pedestrian safety.

This misuse has already caused visible damage in several areas. If it continues unchecked, these walkways could soon become unsafe and unusable. Urgent police intervention is needed to end this dangerous trend and ensure that footpaths are preserved for the purpose they were built—for pedestrians alone.