A scooter rider moves along a paved path at Eranhipalam in Kozhikode on Monday. | Photo credit: K. Ragesh
The alleged illegal entry of motorcycles onto the paved pavements in several parts of Kozhikode has turned out to be a safety hazard for pedestrians. Despite ongoing protests by several affected residents, unrestricted access continues, particularly during peak hours near major intersections.
Pedestrians are often forced to walk on the road due to the sudden entry of motorcycles into the footpaths to avoid traffic obstructions near intersections. Areas around the Karaparamba and Mavoor Road junctions have been identified as areas where the practice is rampant.
There have also been complaints of illegal parking on footpaths near Palayam, Eranhipalam and Mavoor Road, where CCTV footage is barely monitored to identify violators. Though ‘No Parking’ boards have been installed at several places, there is no change in the unhealthy trend due to lax enforcement.
“At least there should be some bollards to prevent two-wheelers from entering the paved pavements. CCTV surveillance is also needed to identify and penalize violators,” said TC Ramakrishnan, member of the Kozhikode Senior Citizens Forum. He pointed out that traffic police measures against such violations were limited.
The frequent movement of motorcycles on the trails also results in damage to the paved and interconnected surfaces in several places. Broken or uneven tiles make pedestrians more likely to slip and fall. The risk is said to be higher in areas with poor street lighting, where damaged sections are not easily visible at night.
Incidentally, pedestrians and traders have also expressed concern over the encroachment of footpaths for allegedly unlicensed commercial activities.
Published – 19 Jan 2026 21:09 IST
