Mumbai's M East ward is set to transform its streets with a Rs 6.15 crore project under the Pedestrian First policy. The initiative, focusing on the Ghatkopar Mankhurd Link Road junction, involves constructing new footpaths along 22 roads. The project aims to prioritize pedestrian safety and accessibility, featuring tactile indicators for the visually impaired and a new clock tower at the Indian Oil Junction. This move marks a significant shift in urban design, prioritizing pedestrian needs and setting a new standard for city planning in India.
In a significant move to enhance pedestrian safety and convenience, Mumbai's M East ward has embarked on a Rs 6.15 crore project to develop footpaths along 22 roads. This initiative, part of the ambitious Pedestrian First policy, underscores a shift towards prioritizing pedestrian needs in urban planning. The project, spearheaded by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), aims to revamp the Ghatkopar Mankhurd Link Road (GMLR) junction, transforming it into a pedestrian-friendly zone.
This comprehensive plan, a brainchild of BMC Administrator IS Chahal, was catalyzed by a meeting with ward officials on January 6. Chahal, in his previous budget address, had emphasized the need for high-quality footpaths, stating that all major roads over 9 meters wide would be surveyed. Roads lacking adequate footpaths or those in poor condition are to be upgraded with smooth surfaces and international design standards. To this end, BMC has engaged expert urban road designers.
The project's essence lies in its shift from vehicle-centric to pedestrian-centric street design, aiming to provide safe, comfortable, and uninterrupted access for pedestrians. The initiative promises to reduce the need for pedestrians to share space with vehicles, thereby diminishing the risk of accidents.
A notable feature of the new footpaths will be tactile ground surface indicators, designed to aid visually impaired pedestrians. These will include warning indicators highlighting potential hazards or indicating destinations. Alka Sasane, Assistant Commissioner of M East ward, highlighted that the GMLR area would be cleared of encroachments to facilitate this development. Among the 140 footpaths in the ward, priority will be given to 22 roads surrounding the GMLR junction.
The roads earmarked for footpath development include stretches from RC Marg to RCF Gate No. 4, from RC Marg to Rane Chawl, Balaji Mandir to VN Purav Marg, Ramdev Mourya Marg, from Deonar Village to Mahalaxmi Mandir, and on BKSD Road. In line with Chahal's directive, all assistant commissioners have been instructed to clear footpaths of encroachments and illegal parking, adhering to IRC Code 103 of 2012 and the Harmonised Guidelines and Standards for Universal Accessibility in India, 2021.
Additionally, the project will see the installation of a clock tower at the Indian Oil Junction, akin to the iconic one at CSMT. This junction, previously known for accidents, is being reimagined with the help of architects to enhance safety and aesthetics.
In conclusion, this project marks a significant stride towards creating a more inclusive and safe urban environment in Mumbai. By placing pedestrians at the forefront of urban design, the BMC sets a precedent for other cities to follow, ensuring that the streets of Mumbai cater to all its citizens, regardless of their mode of transport.
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