Activist Godfrey Pimenta suggests Dallas-style footpaths to boost walkability in Mumbai | File Photo
Mumbai: After the civic chief acknowledged the lack of an adequate walking ecosysyem in Mumbai, activist Godfrey Pimenta has suggested for a footpath design based on Dallas Model to be adapted and implemented in Mumbai.
On Friday, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation chief Bhushan Gagrani said that Mumbai’s walking ecosystem is woefully inadequate and there is a massive gap between what it deserves and what is available.
Following the civic commissioner’s remarks, activist Godfrey Pimenta, trustee of Watchdog Foundation, has urged that there is an urgent need to improve pedestrian infrastructure in suburbs. He suggested for a footpath design based on Dallas model of USA.
The activist said that the footpaths in Dallas are designed with a dual-purpose layout. The central walking portion is a cement concrete trail, accommodating only two persons walking side-by-side, and underneath this trail lies various utility lines and services. Adjacent to this paved walking path is a sloped lawn strip with trees planted at intervals, providing aesthetic appeal, shade, and environmental benefits. He added that the sloping nature of the lawn acts as a natural deterrent to hawking activity and helps preserve the integrity of the walking space.
Pimenta said that this model will be useful for Mumbai utility integration as laying utilities beneath the walking trail will help in better planning and reduce frequent digging and repairs on footpaths. He also added that the lawn laid in a sloping manner would discourage unauthorised encroachments, thereby maintaining footpath availability for pedestrians.
The suggestion also said that tree-lined paths will enhance air quality and provide much-needed shade to walkers in Mumbai’s climate, while a clearly demarcated, even concrete path would ensure safe and accessible movement, especially for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
“Given the growing pedestrian population and the pressing need for walkable streets, especially in the suburbs, we urge the municipal corporation to consider piloting this footpath model in select suburban areas. Implementation of such thoughtfully designed infrastructure will go a long way in promoting walkability, enhancing public health, and improving urban living standards,” said Pimenta.
