Patna: Bihar’s chief minister, Nitish Kumar, has directed the transport department to take immediate steps to improve pedestrian safety across the state, announcing a series of measures aimed at reducing inconvenience and accidents on roads.
In a post on X on Saturday, Kumar said walking safely and with dignity on public roads was a primary right of citizens. He instructed officials to ensure the construction of footpaths, zebra crossings and foot overbridges at designated locations throughout the state.
According to the directives, urban local bodies have been asked to identify crowded and high-risk areas and construct footpaths in line with road safety standards. Zebra crossings are to be marked at appropriate points to facilitate safer road crossings.
The chief minister also ordered the construction of foot overbridges, escalators and underpasses where necessary. In addition, authorities have been directed to identify accident-prone “black spots” in both rural and urban areas and take corrective measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras.
Driver sensitisation has also been made a priority. Kumar instructed that both government and private vehicle drivers undergo training programmes to make them more aware of pedestrians’ rights.
Referring to the seventh resolution under Saat Nischay-3 (2025–30), titled “Sabka Samman–Jeevan Aasaan” (Ease of Living), Kumar said the government was committed to making everyday life safer and more convenient for citizens. He noted that with rising incomes and an increase in two- and four-wheelers on the roads, pedestrian movement had become more challenging.
Officials said the measures were expected to be implemented in phases, with the aim of providing relief to pedestrians amid growing traffic pressure across the state.
