The government has a new weapon in the war against mobile phone zombies taking over the city streets – flashing lights embedded in the footpath.

Four sets of flashing, tactile markers have been installed at the corner of Swanston Street and Little Collins Street, one of the busiest intersections in Melbourne's CBD for foot traffic.

The markers are there for a one-year trial and it is hoped that they will reduce the number of collisions between pedestrians and vehicles.

If results are positive, the illuminated markings will be installed at other busy intersections in the city.