New Delhi: To support walkability, cycling and emerging 24×7 economies in the city, Master Plan for Delhi 2047 stresses on developing active travel areas (ATA) and active travel networks (ATN). The idea is to provide an affordable, comfortable and safe mobility option for pedestrians and cyclists.ATAs are designated urban zones or corridors prioritised for non-motorised transport — primarily walking and cycling — to improve health, ease traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions.MPD has laid out a framework to develop these areas in parts of the city with high pedestrian footfall, such as areas with intense commercial activity, heritage precincts and locations identified for promoting a 24×7 economy, said officials.“We have places like Chandni Chowk, Hauz Khas Village and Adhchini where pedestrian footfall is high. The agencies can identify and develop pedestrian corridors for a smoother and safer experience from the metro. Since some of these are heritage precincts, efforts can be taken to promote nightlife,” said an official.Better pedestrian connectivity, safer streets and integration with public transport could support restaurants, businesses and cultural activities, added officials.Sabyasachi Das, former planning commissioner of DDA, said govt had made earlier attempts to pedestrianise streets and markets, but these initiatives faced resistance due to inadequate supporting infrastructure. “Implementation will always be a challenge as ground realities are very different from theory,” he said.Others, however, said such concepts could be more effectively implemented in the areas still under development, while their adoption in the already congested areas could be challenging.The framework for developing ATAs builds on the existing regulations under which 24 priority areas were identified for preparation of walk plans, said officials. Of these, 14 walk plans have been prepared by DDA and sent to road-owning agencies for implementation.MPD also suggested adopting tactical urbanism measures to make streets pedestrian-friendly. “These include pop-up bike lanes, painted plazas and movable planters aimed at attracting users,” officials said.Meanwhile, the concept of ATN comprises identifying dedicated routes for non-motorised modes, including wheelchairs, to provide continuous connectivity.Initially, such networks could be developed to connect cultural hubs and other ATAs and roads with a width of 30 metres or more, subject to feasibility. “Corridors developed as cycling highways and greenways along natural drains and the Yamuna could also form part of the active travel network,” officials said.
