ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Chandrasekar Sir, for the encouragement and guidance
offered to me throughout the process of completing the dissertation.
I am also grateful to my friends who have provided me with valuable feedback and insight regarding
my research. Their thorough reviews have helped refine my ideas and expand my understanding of
the topic.
Finally, I would like to thank many authors, scholars, and professionals whose work I have referenced
in this dissertation. Their writings and ideas have enriched my own and helped me to reach a more
comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Once again, I would like to express my utmost gratitude for all help and support I have received
throughout this journey.
ABSTRACT
The aim of this research is to explore design solutions which can improve the pedestrian movement in
urban areas. It will consider the environmental and safety aspects of pedestrian movement, as well as
the design strategies that should be used to create a user-friendly pedestrian environment. The
environmental aspects of pedestrian movement are important to ensure that pedestrians can move
safely and conveniently within the city. The design strategies for pedestrian movement should be
based on the principles of making the environment user-friendly, safe, and convenient. This includes
the implementation of visual cues, signs, and markings that help to direct pedestrians to their
destination. The future value of design for pedestrian movement is ensuring that cities are designed in
a way that promotes safe and convenient access for pedestrians, including providing clear and well-
maintained pathways, intersections, and crossings. Additionally, designs should strive to reduce
conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles, provide adequate lighting and signage, and incorporate
features such as benches, drinking fountains, and public art that can add to the overall sense of place.
In the long run, these design features will lead to greater pedestrian use, improved public health, and a
more vibrant urban environment. Finally, the design of sidewalks, pathways, and other pedestrian
facilities should be taken into consideration to ensure that the environment is comfortable and inviting
for pedestrians. Design for pedestrian movement is important for the safety and convenience of
pedestrians. It is also important for creating a pleasant and inviting environment that encourages
people to walk or cycle instead of driving. Design elements such as sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes,
and paths can help to make walking and cycling easier and safer. Additionally, strategically placed
benches, lighting, and vegetation can create a more enjoyable and attractive experience for those who
choose to walk or cycle.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Walking is considered as a foundation for a sustainable city. A sustainable approach towards
transportation planning insights that street prioritization should be allocated highest for pedestrians,
followed by public transportation, bicycle, and then private vehicles. Walking provides numerous
benefits, not only for individual health, but also for economic development, neighbourhood vitality,
and environmental sustainability.
Figure 1. Different type of zones
Source: Understanding Pedestrian Transit in Urban Scenario
There is a lack of research on the design of pedestrian movement in densely populated urban areas.
Many cities are dealing with overcrowding and a lack of infrastructure for pedestrians. This leads to
congested sidewalks, dangerous street crossings, and a lack of walkability. In addition, there is a lack
of research on how to design pedestrian movement systems that are accessible and inclusive for all
pedestrians, including those with disabilities. Finally, there is a need for research on the design of
pedestrian movement systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as using public transportation
and active transport modes.
Research Problems
Footpath/Sidewalk Obstructions
Routes that are discontinuous and disjointed.
In certain localities, there are no sidewalks or footpaths.
Drivers who use the pedestrian right-of-way.
Parking is done on footpaths or sidewalks.
Footpaths are not being maintained (Uneven surfaces, broken paraments, dug up footpaths).
Crossing streets is difficult.
Unsafe grade separated crossings, such as subways and footbridges.
People utilized footpaths and sidewalks to discard rubbish and urinate themselves. Inadequate
infrastructure for disabled pedestrians.
Increased road accidents because of hazardous pedestrian infrastructure.
Personal safety is compromised owing to inadequate design and illumination.
Figure 2. Existing conditions of streets
Source: Google
Design for pedestrian movement promotes more active lifestyles, creates safer streets and
intersections, and encourages more social interaction. It also helps to reduce the number of cars on the
road, which can help to reduce pollution, emissions, and traffic congestion. Finally, pedestrian
friendly design can increase economic development, as people are more likely to patronize businesses
when they feel safe and comfortable walking to them. Previous research on pedestrian movement has
focused on understanding how different urban design elements can influence the way people move
within a city. Studies have examined the impact of urban design features such as sidewalk width,
street connectivity, street tree canopies, and pedestrian-oriented signage on pedestrian movement.
Research has also investigated how different demographic groups and socioeconomic factors
influence pedestrian movement, as well as the role of technology in providing real-time pedestrian
movement data. Additionally, studies have explored how pedestrian movement can be used to inform
urban planning efforts, such as designing safer streets and improving access to public transport.
Need
Comfort for the existing walking population.
Reduced reliance on automobiles if shorter excursions may be performed easily on foot.
More activity means better health for those who stroll.
Prioritization of non-motorized private modes and public transportation in roadway design.
Reduced automobile use, resulting in less congestion and pollution
Greater equity in providing pleasant public places and facilities to all segments of society.
Scope
The scope of design for pedestrian movement includes the following elements:
1. Safe and well-lit pathways: This includes creating pathways that are wide enough to
accommodate pedestrians and have adequate lighting so that pedestrians can safely navigate
their way.
2. Traffic control devices: This includes the use of signs, markings, and signals to control the
flow of vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
3. Rest areas and seating: This includes the provision of benches, shelters, and other rest areas
so pedestrians can take a break during their journey.
4. Accessibility: This includes providing ramps and other measures to ensure that pedestrians
with disabilities have access to sidewalks and pathways.
5. Pedestrian friendly infrastructure: This includes the use of pedestrian-friendly street design,
such as raised crosswalks, curb extensions, and traffic calming measures.
6. Green infrastructure: This includes the use of green infrastructure such as trees, shrubs, and
other plants to provide shade and improve air quality.
7. Community engagement: This includes engaging with local communities to ensure that
pedestrian infrastructure is designed in a way that meets their needs.
Figure 3. Pedestrian first
Source: Google
Objective
The objective is to create a safe, efficient, and accessible environment for pedestrians to move around
in. The design will include the appropriate infrastructure to facilitate comfortable and safe pedestrian
movement, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and other amenities. Additionally, the design will consider
factors such as accessibility for people with disabilities, public transit access, and pedestrian-friendly
lighting. The goal is to create an environment that is welcoming and inviting to pedestrians, while also
being safe and efficient. To provide guidelines for planning, designing, and implementing well-
connected, safe, comfortable, and sustainable pedestrian facilities that will encourage and inspire an
increasing number of people to choose walking as their preferred mode of transportation for short
trips (less than 2-3km) in cities. It is critical to establish a framework in the form of goals and
objectives at the start of the pedestrian planning process so that all projects and choices involving
pedestrian infrastructure are aimed at accomplishing these shared aims.
Research value and relevance
Design for pedestrian movement is an important and relevant research topic, as it directly affects the
safety, comfort, and convenience of pedestrians. Design practices that prioritize pedestrian movement
can improve access to essential services, reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities, and create more
vibrant and liveable cities. Design can also be used to reduce environmental impacts, by reducing the
amount of time pedestrians spend walking and driving, as well as reducing the amount of fuel
consumed. Additionally, design can be used to create more equitable spaces, by ensuring that all
pedestrians have access to necessary facilities, regardless of their social and economic backgrounds.
Finally, design can be used to encourage more active lifestyles, by creating spaces that are welcoming
and enjoyable to walk in.
Future value
The future value of design for pedestrian movement is ensuring that cities are designed in a way that
promotes safe and convenient access for pedestrians, including providing clear and well-maintained
pathways, intersections, and crossings. Additionally, designs should strive to reduce conflicts between
pedestrians and vehicles, provide adequate lighting and signage, and incorporate features such as
benches, drinking fountains, and public art that can add to the overall sense of place. In the long run,
these design features will lead to greater pedestrian use, improved public health, and a more vibrant
urban environment.
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
Establishing a pedestrian plan will benefit communities to encourage walking and in turn become a
healthier and more liveable community. A pedestrian master plan (PMP) is a public document
developed through public participation, visioning and analysis of current conditions. laying out a
community’s vision for future pedestrian activity, identifying the actions required to make that vision
happen, tying actions with funding sources, and committing agencies and stakeholders to its
implementation and use. Pedestrian plans establish the programs, policies, design criteria and projects
that will further enhance pedestrian safety, comfort and access in their neighbourhood.
2.1 Importance and planning of pedestrian streets in urban environment, Elizabete Mendzina,
Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Latvia: An increasing problem in cities is the
growth of the number of motorized vehicles making the urban environment unsafe and unattractive
and reducing residents’ willingness to walk. The study explores the problems associated with the
development of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in the city. The importance of pedestrian movement
in the urban environment was studied and several pedestrian streets in Latvia were analyzed. The
authors have worked out recommendations for creating a spatial structure and landscape design in
urban environment focusing on the necessity to install good quality and sustainable outdoor design
elements, to provide environmental accessibility as well as to include pedestrian streets in the city’s
overall green infrastructure network, based on both social and environmental aspects.
2.2 A case analysis of Kozhikode city, Anjith Augustine, M.Arch, Asst. Professor, KMEA
College of Architecture, Edathala Aluva: Cities have always been dynamic and transforming
because of which the character of our urban spaces is also constantly changing. But these changing
dynamics, is not fully understood by our current master planning process. The master planning being
very linear in approach cannot accommodate these variations or dynamics and term them as chaotic.
The paper tries to understand chaos as an underlying character of Indian Cities and to demonstrate a
methodology of planning which can incorporate these changing dimensions. This in turn leads to
more sustainable future cities.
2.3 The Pedestrianisation and Its Relationship with Enhancing Walkability in Urban Spaces,
Najmaldin Hussein, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture, E.M.U, Turkey: The
study aimed to answer the question of how pedestrianisation can influence walkability to increasing
physical activity vitality and livability of urban spaces. Therefore, after the theoretical understanding
of the framework of the research, the study will focus on experimental research on the Salamis rode of
Famagusta to assess the problems of walkability in the street to propose a sustainable and human
friendly solution for this area. Walkability as a part of pedestrianization scheme will lead to increase
the quality of the urban environment by increasing safety and organization in urban infra instructors.
Figure 4. The hierarchy of human needs regarding to walkability
Source: The Pedestrianisation and Its Relationship with Enhancing Walkability in Urban Spaces
2.4 Understanding Urban Mobility and Pedestrian Movement, Marija Bezbradica and Heather
J. Ruskin, Advanced Research Computing Centre: Urban environments continue to expand and
mutate, both in terms of size of urban area and number of people commuting daily as well as the
number of options for personal mobility. City layouts and infrastructure also change constantly,
subject to both short-term and long-term imperatives. Transportation networks have attracted
particular attention in recent years, due to efforts to incorporate “green” options, enabling positive
lifestyle choices such as walking or cycling commutes. In this chapter we explore the pedestrian
viewpoint, aids to familiarity with and ease of navigation in the urban environment, and the impact of
novel modes of individual transport (as options such as smart urban bicycles and electric scooters
increasingly become the norm).
Methods of analysis
1. Space Syntax Analysis: This method of analysis uses a variety of methods to analyse the spatial
structure and movement of pedestrians within a given space. For example, it uses network
analysis to identify points of high pedestrian movement, and to analyse the spatial relationships
between different elements of the design.
2. Pedestrian Flow Analysis: This method uses mathematical models to study the movement of
pedestrians within a given space. It can be used to analyse the efficiency and safety of a design,
and to identify areas where the design could be improved.
3. Environmental Psychology: This method uses psychological principles to analyse how people
interact with their environment, and how the design of a space affects their behaviour. It can be
used to identify how the design of a space can influence how people move through it, and how it
affects their overall experience.
4. GIS Analysis: This method uses geographic information systems to analyse the spatial
relationships between different elements of the design, and to identify areas of high pedestrian
flow. It can also be used to analyse the safety and efficiency of a design.
3.0 LITERATURE CASE STUDY
Case studies can provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of design solutions for pedestrian
movement in urban areas. These studies can focus on the implementation of various design elements,
such as pedestrian-friendly street furniture, green infrastructure, and protected bike lanes, to enhance
the safety and comfort of pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, case studies can look at the impact of
pedestrian-friendly design on the overall urban environment, such as how it has improved mobility
and accessibility for vulnerable populations, or how it has improved economic opportunities for local
businesses.
3.1 Case of Nagpur, India
Even though motorization is increasing in Indian cities, an analysis of modal split suggests that almost
30% of the trips continue to be made by Non-Motorized Transport vis-a-vis cars and two wheelers
(60-70%). Empowering pedestrian movement has become essential to maintaining affordability,
environment sustainability and social inclusiveness. This research paper relates to the link between
sustainable urban form and pedestrian movement and identifies innovative mechanisms to enable
pedestrian movement at critical city locations within Nagpur. The research concludes the inter relation
between mixed land use, varying skyline, informal activities, evolving an ideal street design enabling
pedestrian movement which lead to creation of people-centric smart cities.
Figure 5. Research Framework
Source: Interrelating Urban Form and Pedestrian Movement
The study has been restricted to one Indian city- Nagpur, Maharashtra. This ancient city has a history
of about 300 years carrying strong social & cultural values; thus, a representative of Indian culture.
Nagpur city is governed by Municipal Corporation (NMC), its area being 9897 sq.km; of which
Nagpur City area is 218 sq.km (NMC). Population of Nagpur city is 46,700 lakhs with an average
density of 470 persons per Sq. km, which is quite low compared to other comparable cities of India.
Figure 6. Existing Land-use along Sitabuldi market area, Nagpur, India
Source: Interrelating Urban Form and Pedestrian Movement
From the urban form analysis, it can be concluded that there is a fundamental difference in urban form
configuration between the two streets, in terms of their local structure as well as their global context.
Urban form elements along Sitabuldi Market Street are more influencing as compared to urban form
elements on Alternate Street. This study reveals that the urban form influences the pedestrian
movement of cities by case studies of two streets in Sitabuldi area of Nagpur city. To enable
pedestrian movement of Sitabuldi Market Street, which is preferred by pedestrians, existing street
design is studied to understand issues faced by pedestrians & further measures are taken to improve
pedestrian conditions by proposing a suitable street design.
3.2 Case of Bangalore, India
Bangalore has the worst road traffic in India considering the destructive cocktail of high accidents,
vehicular pollution, traffic violations and motorization levels. Bangalore can in fact compete with
other metropolis for having the worst pedestrian infrastructure in the country considering non-existent
footpaths, crossings etc.
Figure 7. Existing condition of streets
Source: Pedestrians at Crossroads: A Case Study of Bangalore
The Comprehensive Traffic and Transportation Study (8) conducted in Bangalore in 2007 estimated
the pedestrian trip share as 8.33% with number of trips daily being 523597. This estimation looks
highly conservative as the Public Transport and IPT shares are 41.91% and 11.56% respectively.
Considering very poor service of park & ride facilities available in Bangalore, the ingress and egress
from the public transport share would be mainly through the walking mode, thus it should have a
higher share. The reason for gross underestimation in the pedestrian mode share can be the possible
preference given to the vehicular movements in the urban transportation modelling behaviour.
Many researchers believe in the philosophy of Induced Traffic. The logic is the more you invest on
infrastructure, the more traffic it would attract. The same holds good on pedestrian infrastructure also.
If the government plans more investment on pedestrian infrastructure, the more pedestrian traffic it
would attract.
3.3 Case of Lucknow, India
The core of any Bazaar (Market) is its spontaneity and the reason why a Bazaar anywhere in India is
so special. Pedestrianisation provides better accessibility and mobility for pedestrians, beautifying the
extent of purchasing and other commercial enterprise activity in the region. The significance of
pedestrianisation in developing countries is increasing continuously because the presence of vehicles
is overcoming in cities as a result the attendance of pedestrian in urban areas becomes less and much
less.
Aminabad is a large bazaar located in the heart of Old Lucknow City of Uttar Pradesh. The Bazaar
being operated since the time of the Nawabs is a colourful, vibrant and a lively market to shop,
famous for jewellery, ornaments, chicken embroidered cloths, fancy sarees, Lucknow pan (betel
leaves) & bakeries. It is the central part of Old Lucknow City which caters the maximum flow of
visitors compared to the other markets of the city. But, from the last few years the market which
meant to be an attractive public space has lost its charm and purpose due to heavy traffic congestion
of vehicles and pedestrians, illegal encroachment of hawkers and vendors, on street parking. Thus,
Pedestrianization is found to be ineffective way to make the market attractive again.
Table 1. Comparison of walkability index of Indian and international cities
Source: WWF natures report, 2014
Aminabad is found congested during evening peak hours, festival seasons, when lots of users visit the
area to shop for different items. The Naziabad Road is a main road and carries high volumes of traffic.
At present, the rate of hawking activity is growing at a high pace leading to encroachment of footpath
by uncontrolled activity because of absence of MUZ. For the same, an attempt has been made to
critically examine the existing problems Naziabad Road i.e., Primary surveys conducted brought out
the views of the public who use the area, including, the hawkers, shop keepers and the visiting people.
The available ROW for the road has been mapped and found to range between 9m-12m along the
540m study corridor. From the study, it was found out however that designated and designed place for
hawkers would make it convenient for the hawkers, shop keepers and the pedestrians. So, zoning as
per hawking activities is recommended. Unawareness program for the hawkers is necessary. With the
formation of a welfare association of shopkeepers and hawkers for their general maintenance and
regulation.
3.4 Case of Stroget, Copenhagen
Until 1962, all the streets and squares of central Copenhagen were used intensively for vehicle traffic
and parking and were under pressure from the rapidly growing fleet of private vehicles. Copenhagen
began with the city’s main street, Strøget, which was converted in 1962 as an experiment. The
conversion of the 1.15 km-long main street into a pedestrian street was seen as a pioneering effort,
which gave rise to much public debate before the street was converted.
Figure 8. Before and after pedestrianization of streets
Source: Pedestrian only streets, Global Designing Cities Initiative
The pedestrianization of Strøget highlighted the potential for outdoor public life in Denmark, as
Danes never had the room and the opportunity to develop a public life in public spaces. This
pedestrianization created peaceful, yet lively, public spaces. Strøget also proved that pedestrian streets
can increase revenue for local retailers.
4.0 METHODOLOGY
1. Identify goals: Before beginning any pedestrian design project, it is important to identify the goals
of the project. This includes understanding the context of the area and the objectives of the design.
2. Analyse the existing environment: Once goals have been identified, it is important to analyse the
existing environment. This includes understanding the existing pedestrian patterns, the existing
infrastructure, and the existing land uses.
3. Incorporate pedestrian elements: Once the existing environment has been analysed, it is
important to incorporate pedestrian elements into the design. This includes selecting appropriate
materials, designing appropriate pathways and crossings, creating comfortable and inviting spaces,
and designing for accessibility.
4. Evaluate the design: After incorporating pedestrian elements into the design, it is important to
evaluate the design to ensure that it meets the goals and objectives identified in step one.
5. Implement the design: Once the design has been evaluated and approved, it is important to
implement the design. This includes installation of infrastructure, construction of pathways, and other
necessary elements.
5.0 CONCLUSION
Maintaining this culture and encouraging people to walk instead of using private vehicles is most
necessary for a city in a long run. Paving of walkways is very important, the walkways shouldn’t be
uneven, and pedestrian shouldn’t be obliged to pass steps, its width should be enough to pass and
should be suitable for disables, elderly and children. The design of pedestrian movement should
incorporate the principles of safety, convenience, and efficiency. It should create an environment that
is inviting and accessible to all users, while at the same time providing adequate protection to
vulnerable users. Design strategies should seek to maximize mobility and comfort, while minimizing
conflicts between pedestrians and motor vehicles. The physical design should include features such as
sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps, and traffic calming measures. Signage and lighting should also be
incorporated to provide guidance and visibility to pedestrians. Finally, pedestrian safety should be
taken into consideration when designing and constructing pedestrian movement, as well as when
evaluating existing facilities.
In conclusion, future work should continue to focus on improving pedestrian movement in urban areas.
This can be accomplished by incorporating pedestrian-friendly design features such as wider
sidewalks, improved street lighting, and better crosswalks. Additionally, the use of traffic calming
measures should be increased to reduce the potential for negative interactions between pedestrians and
motor vehicles. Further research should also be conducted to better understand the motivations of
pedestrians and the factors that influence their decisions to move in certain ways. Finally, the
development of educational materials and campaigns that promote pedestrian safety and rights should
also be considered. By incorporating these design features and engaging in educational outreach,
cities can improve the safety and accessibility of their urban spaces for pedestrians.
References:
1. Nishara, Vavitta & Krishnan, Sruthi & Firoz, Mohammed. (2021). Geo-intelligence-Based
Approach for Sustainable Development of Peri-Urban Areas: A Case Study of Kozhikode
City, Kerala (India).
2. Amruta A. Kakirde, Omkar G. Parishwad. (2017). Interrelating Urban Form and Pedestrian
Movement (Case of Nagpur, India).
3. Elizabete Mendzina (2021). Importance and planning of pedestrian streets in urban
environment.
4. Bezbradica, Marija & Ruskin, Heather. (2019). Understanding Urban Mobility and Pedestrian
Movement.
5. Al-Taesh, Najmaldin. (2018). The Pedestrianisation and Its Relation with Enhancing
Walkability in Urban Spaces.
6. Nasim Iranmanesh (2008). Pedestrianisation a great necessity in urban designing to create a
sustainable city in developing countries.
7. Sangaradasse, P & S, Eswari. (2019). Importance of Traffic and Transportation Plan in the
Context of Land Use Planning for Cities -A Review.