Challenges of Urban Walking in Indian Cities

Citizens and activists are rallying for safer and more navigable footpaths in Indian cities, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure and policy reforms.

In many Indian cities, pedestrians face daunting obstacles when navigating footpaths, often citing poor conditions and encroachment by vendors. Arun Pai, founder of the non-profit Bangalore Walks, has taken notice of these issues and initiated the 'world's longest footpath run' in Bengaluru, encouraging citizens to chronicle their walking experiences. Participants navigate an 11-kilometer stretch and report challenges such as obstacles, debris, and poor maintenance. "Specific complaints give us better leverage when addressing authorities," Pai notes, pushing for actionable change rather than vague requests.

Citizen-led movements across the country are calling for pedestrian-centric reforms. In Mumbai, the Walking Project advocated for a 'pedestrian manifesto' ahead of the state’s elections, urging for designated hawking zones and pedestrian-friendly corridors. With data revealing that nearly 50% of the city’s population relies on walking, the manifesto underscores the neglect pedestrians face in transportation policy. Vendant Mhatre, convener of the Walking Project, pointed out the alarming statistic of pedestrian fatalities becoming second only to motorbike riders, highlighting the urgency for comprehensive safety measures.

The citizens' call for change echoes findings from various studies, such as a 2019 analysis in Chennai showing that improved footpath facilities led to notable increases in walking, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and greater accessibility for underprivileged groups. These improvements can promote economic savings and reduce reliance on motorized transport, benefiting communities at large.

Despite these arguments, urban planning continues to favor motor vehicles, often leading to the demise of footpath infrastructure. Geetam Tiwari, a civil engineering professor, emphasizes that pedestrian needs are frequently overshadowed by attempts to mitigate car congestion. She suggests that maintaining and even encouraging some traffic congestion could ultimately support pedestrian infrastructure, reducing long-term issues related to transportation.

Advocates are calling for integrated planning for non-motorized transport policies across Indian cities, aiming for thorough implementation of standards laid out by the Indian Road Congress to support a shift to walking and cycling initiatives. As urban areas grapple with challenges unique to their dense populations, the importance of addressing pedestrian infrastructure remains a pivotal discussion for the future of mobility in India.