Walkways must be people friendly

The shocking incident in Kochi, where a three-year-old boy fell into an uncovered drainage while walking with his mother can happen anywhere in the state. This is because the state of walkways and unscientifically constructed drainages are pathetic in every part of the state.

Not only children but grown ups are also falling into drainages. Many have also died due to such accidental falls. The authorities do not seem to realize that the drainages, which pose a risk to pedestrians, must be covered or railings must be erected. Their attitude seems to be that these issues do not concern them. Only when people fall into the drainages and sustain serious injuries or die will it become a news and sudden interventions take place. Kerala might be the only place where the cost of people’s life is very low.

It is good that the incident at Panambali Nagar in Kochi where the boy fell into the drainage was taken up by the High Court. Earlier also the court has intervened in accident cases like these. Just because it is hard to defy the court, solutions were found to the issues. It must be remembered that the court too has limitations to intervene in all the cases caused by the irresponsibility of the authorities.

It is the right of a pedestrian to have the drainage covered. The PWD and the local body is responsible for it. The slab on top of the drainage must be good to walk on. It must not be broken as seen now in many places. There are many incidents where people have stepped on broken slabs and got injured seriously.

Those who raise their voice for safety in public roads do not usually complain about the pathetic conditions of drainages. This is because their attention is more towards the broken roads that are a hindrance to travel. The issues of pedestrians do not get the attention it needs. Pedestrians do not get enough space to walk. These walkways are easily encroached and used to run business and to park vehicles. Officers do not see these violations.

Public spaces must be safe and people friendly. This can be made possible if the officials have accountability.