The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has introduced a dedicated public grievance redressal mechanism to address concerns over pedestrian safety infrastructure across the islands, following directions issued by the Supreme Court in a national case on rising pedestrian fatalities.
The move comes amid growing concerns over the condition of pedestrian facilities, including damaged or encroached footpaths, missing or faded zebra crossings, and inadequate road safety measures in high-footfall areas such as markets, schools and bus stands. Authorities have acknowledged the need for urgent attention to these gaps, particularly in locations with heavy pedestrian movement.
The Supreme Court, while hearing Writ Petition (Civil) No. 295 of 2012, had taken serious note of increasing pedestrian deaths across the country and directed all States and Union Territories to strengthen infrastructure and ensure timely resolution of public complaints related to road safety. Acting on these directives, the administration has operationalised a system that allows citizens to report deficiencies directly.
Under the mechanism, residents can register complaints by dialling the toll-free emergency number 112. Officials stated that complaints received through this channel will be forwarded to the respective road-owning agency responsible for the area, which will then carry out inspections and initiate corrective action within a defined timeframe.
The administration has also issued a public appeal urging citizens to support safer road use practices. It has asked vehicle owners to avoid parking on footpaths or obstructing pedestrian pathways and zebra crossings, noting that such actions directly compromise pedestrian safety. At the same time, pedestrians have been advised to use designated crossings while navigating roads.
Authorities further called on all road users to exercise caution in pedestrian-heavy zones and prioritise vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, school children and persons with disabilities. The administration emphasised that collective adherence to road discipline remains essential in reducing risks and preventing accidents.
Officials reiterated that the initiative forms part of a broader commitment to improving road safety standards in the islands. By enabling direct public reporting and ensuring accountability of road-owning agencies, the administration aims to address infrastructure deficiencies in a structured and time-bound manner.
The administration maintained that ensuring safe mobility for pedestrians remains a priority and that the grievance system is intended to strengthen both infrastructure response and public participation in road safety oversight.
