Mumbai footpaths remain inaccessible despite BMC’s Universal Footpath Policy

A well-maintained footpath with tactile tiles near Earth Cafe, opposite MMRDA ground in Bandra-Kurla Complex. PIC/SHADAB KHAN

[popcorn number=" 2023 " desc=" Year Universal Footpath Policy was finalised" class="Default"]

Mumbai's footpaths remain largely hostile to those with restricted mobility - those with visual impairments or requiring wheelchairs to access pedestrian walkways.

The Universal Footpath Policy (2023) of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has made provisions to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities, calling for the use of tactile tiles for the visually impaired, maintenance of sufficient distance between bollards to ensure wheelchair accessibility, railings between carriageways and the pavement to protect wheelchair-bound pedestrians from traffic, and kerb slopes to climb on and off the pavements. However, none of these designs has been implemented over the past two years.

Inclusive elements

1 Tactile tiles: Footpaths should be installed with two types of tactile tiles - dotted and lined - to act as warning and directional indicators. If they are partially or incorrectly laid, they can prove hazardous to persons with blindness and other visual impairments

A footpath constructed as per the Universal Footpath Policy. Pic/By Special Arrangement

2 Bollards: They should be placed in a zig-zag manner to streamline vehicular access, while allowing entry to wheelchairs. Following a petition, the Bombay High Court cracked down on the BMC in 2024, mandating that it implement a universal standard ensuring at least a one-metre gap between all street bollards

3 Kerbs: Ramps have been proposed to ensure seamless access to footpaths in case of instructions such as entrance to buildings

4 Width: A minimum width of 1.2 metres needs to be maintained on footpaths to ensure wheelchair access

SoBo success story

Since 2021-22, the BMC designed model footpaths at Kala Ghoda, Fashion Street, Churchgate precinct, and August Kranti Maidan to ensure universal accessibility. Over five km of footpaths were restored as part of pilot projects between 2023-25, incorporating use of…

>> Tactile tiles
>> Equidistant bollards
>> Uniform width
>> Adequate street lighting
>> Street furniture on one side of footpath

Official Speak

An official
‘The administrative intent is there to include this in policy and planning. Wherever possible, universal accessibility is incorporated in footpath design. We have to consider multiple aspects, from space availability, rationalising the demands of various segments of society, and interdepartmental coordination with the traffic department. All design guidelines are required to adhere to those laid down by the Indian Road Congress , and policies adhere to these guidelines'

2023
Year Universal Footpath Policy was finalised