Bengaluru, July 23: The Karnataka Government is considering a sharp increase in the penalty for riding motor vehicles on footpaths, with Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda proposing that the fine be raised from the existing ₹500 to ₹5,000. The move is aimed at strengthening pedestrian safety and discouraging motorists from illegally using footpaths as roads.
The proposal comes amid ongoing efforts to reclaim footpaths from encroachments and improve walkability across Bengaluru. During a review meeting with traffic police and civic officials, the minister expressed concern over the increasing number of motorists using footpaths to bypass traffic congestion, putting pedestrians—particularly children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities—at risk.
Krishna Byre Gowda stated that riding any motor vehicle on footpaths is a serious violation of traffic rules and should attract stricter penalties. He noted that the proposed tenfold increase in the fine would act as a strong deterrent and help protect the rights of pedestrians to use public walkways safely. The proposal has been forwarded to the Transport Department for consideration.
In addition to the proposed hike in fines, the minister directed officials to intensify enforcement against illegal parking on major roads and review the placement of bus stops located close to traffic junctions. According to officials, better enforcement of existing traffic regulations, combined with improved road management, could significantly ease congestion across the city.
Road safety advocates have welcomed the proposal, saying that footpaths are meant exclusively for pedestrians and should remain free from vehicles. Citizens have also urged authorities to complement stricter penalties with greater public awareness and consistent enforcement to ensure long-term compliance.
If approved by the state government, the revised penalty will become one of Karnataka’s strongest measures to protect pedestrians and improve urban road discipline. Officials believe the initiative will contribute to making Bengaluru’s streets safer, more accessible, and pedestrian-friendly while reducing traffic-related risks in busy commercial and residential areas.