Mumbai is set to become the first city in India to develop a comprehensive city-wide master pedestrian network plan, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) informing the Supreme Court that it is preparing an integrated strategy to create a seamless, accessible and connected pedestrian network across the metropolis.
In an affidavit submitted before the apex court, the civic body said the proposed plan will be built using its advanced 3D city model, integrated with Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping, satellite imagery, LiDAR surveys, drone mapping, development plan data and other geospatial technologies.
According to the BMC, the initiative aims to replace the city’s fragmented footpath system—where sidewalks often begin and end abruptly—with a scientifically planned, city-wide pedestrian network.
The affidavit was filed in response to an application in the ongoing public interest litigation (PIL) concerning pedestrian safety and the implementation of Mumbai’s Universal Footpath Policy.
The civic body informed the court that it has already begun collecting ward-wise data on existing footpaths, missing links, discontinuous stretches and accessibility gaps. This information will be compiled into a comprehensive geospatial inventory of pedestrian infrastructure across the city.
The integrated digital platform will allow authorities to visualise roads, footpaths, transport corridors, utilities and other urban infrastructure while identifying encroachments, missing footpath links and areas requiring accessibility improvements.
The proposed master plan will prioritise key pedestrian corridors, improve connectivity, bridge missing links and integrate walkways with public transport infrastructure. To oversee the initiative, the BMC is establishing a dedicated institutional mechanism under its Chief Engineer (Roads & Traffic) Department to coordinate planning, GIS mapping, implementation and monitoring.
Regarding street vendors, the BMC clarified that their regulation and rehabilitation will continue under the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, the Maharashtra Rules, 2016, and the Street Vendors Scheme, 2017, while ensuring a balance between pedestrian movement and livelihoods.
The Supreme Court has taken the affidavit on record, and the matter is scheduled for further hearing on September 3.
Source: Bar & Bench
