With pedestrian-only zones, Delhi Master Plan sharpens focus on ‘Right to Walk’

Delhi's Master Plan 2047 has sharpened its focus on promoting pedestrian-friendly zones, following a recent Supreme Court ruling that emphasized the 'Right to Walk'. On average, Delhiites walk just 1.6 kilometers per day, while cyclists average 3.6 kilometers. The plan emphasizes the creation of safe, shaded, and universally accessible pathways, as well as pedestrian-only zones and improved links with public transport.

Non-motorized trips, such as walking and cycling, make up 42% of total trips, with pedestrians accounting for 35% of these journeys. Public transport trips, like metro and bus commutes, constitute 24% of the total, but the plan highlights that the average road and public transport trip length has increased from 6 km in 2007 to 10.9 km in 2018.

To encourage walking, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has prepared 14 proposals, which are being implemented with the help of traffic management and Multi-Modal Integration (MMI) plans. The plan proposes barrier-free non-motorized transport infrastructure, including footpaths, cycle tracks, pedestrian zones, and cycle crossings.

Pedestrian-only zones are proposed in commercial areas, heritage precincts, and areas designated for 24x7 economic activity. Additionally, the plan calls for continuous active-travel networks, transit stations with cycle parking facilities, and the removal of encroachments and illegal structures from footpaths and non-motorized transport lanes.