AMC Plans Citywide ‘Pedestrian First’ Footpath Network

Ahmedabad: The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is planning a citywide “Pedestrian First” footpath network aimed at making walking safer, more accessible and more convenient across the city.

Under the plan, AMC will maintain a minimum clear walking space of 1.80 to 2 metres on footpaths, along with facilities such as zebra crossings, pedestrian signals, road markings, ramps and improved signage. The focus will be on creating continuous, obstruction-free pedestrian routes along busy roads, junctions, near schools, bus stops and other high-footfall areas.

Rather than developing footpaths as isolated stretches, the civic body plans to connect them with junctions, intersections, bus stops, building entrances and other key destinations to create a seamless walking network.

AMC will also identify and remove or relocate obstacles that occupy pedestrian space, including utility boxes, signboards, street furniture, construction materials and unauthorised parking. Footpaths may be widened at locations where pedestrian movement is particularly heavy.

The plan also includes tactile paving at suitable locations to assist visually impaired pedestrians and improve accessibility.

Road safety measures will form an integral part of the proposed network. At signalised junctions, pedestrian signal phases will be introduced wherever required, giving people sufficient time and priority to cross roads. Special attention will be given to schools, public transport hubs, busy junctions and other areas with heavy pedestrian movement.

To make crossings more accessible, AMC plans to provide ramps with suitable gradients at pedestrian crossings and junctions, keeping the needs of children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities in mind. Improved lighting at pedestrian crossings is also planned to enhance safety after dark.

The civic body said the planning and implementation will take into account the latest road safety and accessibility standards, including guidelines issued by the Indian Roads Congress and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

The broader aim of the initiative is to build a connected and accessible pedestrian network across Ahmedabad, making walking safer while also improving overall road safety. DeshGujarat