Need for Qualitative Evaluation Model for Existing  Sidewalks of Roads in Indian Cities

Ar. Medha Vijay Gokhale; Dr. Milind V. Telang

Volume : III, Issue : X, October - 2013

Need for Qualitative Evaluation Model for Existing Sidewalks of Roads in Indian Cities

Ar. Medha Vijay Gokhale, Dr. Milind V. Telang

Abstract :

Walking is one of the most sustainable forms of transport, cheap and contributing to safe and liveable environment. Eventually increase in vehicular traffic for faster connectivity has led to the widening of roads and subsequently degradation of walking environment. Urban sidewalks are the spaces provided for the pedestrians and their varied activities but are undervalued in terms of pedestrians needs such as comfort, mobility, safety and convenience. The quantitative dimensions of sidewalk elements addressed in the Indian road standards are somehow implemented as per the guidelines mentioned. However qualitative dimensions of the pedestrian environment are neither assessed nor addressed in these national standards and lack the sidewalk evaluation tools and techniques as per the pedestrians’ needs. Thus there is need to develop the qualitative evaluation model for assessing the sidewalk elements and facilities as per pedestrians comfort needs which this paper aims at. This evaluation tool will not only help in assessing the pedestrian level of service in terms of sidewalk walkability indices but also serve as pioneer model for identifying the existing sidewalk issues which will help the local government in formulating the design standards, policies and the implementation strategies to improve the sidewalk walkability index and generate pedestrian responsive street environment.