Challenges of Pedestrian Life in Indian Cities: Navigating Obstacles and Advocating Change

An exploration of the difficulties pedestrians endure in Indian cities underscores urgent demands for better footpath conditions and accessibility improvements.

Many cities in India are grappling with the challenges of inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, making it difficult for residents to navigate their surroundings safely. Arun Pai, a local activist from Bengaluru, has recently launched a unique initiative called the "world's longest footpath run." This challenge encourages participants to walk or jog a designated 11-kilometer stretch of footpath while documenting obstacles such as hawkers, litter, and damaged surfaces. The goal is to create a tangible list of issues that can be presented to local authorities to facilitate specific improvements.

Footpaths in Indian cities, particularly in major hubs like Bengaluru and Mumbai, are often overcrowded and poorly maintained. Mr. Pai, who is also the founder of Bangalore Walks, emphasizes that actionable data can significantly pressure local politicians to address pedestrian concerns. Other organizations, such as Delhi by Cycle, are similarly advocating for more walkable and bike-friendly infrastructure.

Despite the vast number of pedestrians—approximately 50% of Mumbai's population—their needs are often overlooked in urban planning and policies. Activists, including those from the Walking Project, are actively demanding solutions through initiatives like a 'pedestrian manifesto,' which outlines necessary changes to enhance walking conditions, including better parking regulations and designated areas for hawking.

Accident statistics further illustrate the dangers pedestrians face in India. The number of pedestrian fatalities is alarming, with over 10,000 deaths reported on national highways in 2022 alone. Experts argue that instead of superficial fixes like speed bumps, comprehensive planning that includes interconnected footpaths is essential to significantly decrease accident rates and improve overall safety for pedestrians.

Research from cities like Chennai demonstrates that well-constructed footpaths can lead to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions while providing socio-economic benefits for lower-income groups, particularly women. Tailoring footpath improvements to meet diverse needs, such as those of disabled individuals, is also vital in creating more equitable access.

Geetam Tiwari, a civil engineering professor, voiced concerns about the disproportionate focus on reducing car congestion at the expense of pedestrian infrastructure. Considerations for better access to public transport should lead to prioritizing well-designed walking paths. She advocates for enhanced governmental guidelines and Non-Motorized Transport Policies in urban planning, stressing that investing in pedestrian infrastructure can ultimately alleviate traffic woes.

The emphasis on walking as an economically viable and environmentally friendly mode of transport must be embraced by urban planners and officials to transform the pedestrian experience across Indian cities. Activists insist that meaningful changes are long overdue for India's neglected footpaths, and it's imperative that the conversation around pedestrian rights advances.