Nagpur Municipal Corporation Initiates Ambitious Project to Transform Road Infrastructure
In a bold departure from conventional road widening projects, Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to prioritize cycling, walking, seating, and recreation areas over traffic lanes. Taking inspiration from successful models in Barcelona and Pune, the NMC plans to convert a section of the Central Bazaar Road, stretching from VNIT Square to Kachipura Square, into a 'Walkable Street' within the next year.
Under this ambitious project, the NMC aims to revamp and align VNIT Square, Bajaj Nagar Square, and Kachipura Square to the same level as the cement concrete roads found in these squares. The objective is to create a seamless transition between the squares and the transformed Walkable Street, fostering a pedestrian-friendly environment for the community.
Sharing his experience, Radhakrishnan B, NMC Commissioner, explained that the idea for the project stemmed from his visit to Barcelona for a city conference. There, he discovered that reducing the number of vehicle lanes and allocating the remaining space for cycling and walking had yielded positive results. Replicating this model in India, however, seemed challenging due to the country's high population and a large number of vehicles. Nonetheless, Radhakrishnan also drew inspiration from the Smart City Mission's development of Jangli Maharaj Road in Pune. Collaborating with architects and NMICS urban design cell, the MC devised the "Walkable Street" concept.
With the project already underway, a private contractor has been appointed to carry out the necessary construction works. The NMC has commenced the redevelopment of the stormwater drain network, an integral part of the pilot project. The initial phase of the project amounts to a total cost of Rs19 crore. The success of this pilot initiative will determine the future extension of the concept up to Lokmat Square, demonstrating the NMC's commitment to sustainable and people-centric urban development.
Expressing his optimism, Radhakrishnan B emphasized the potential benefits of the Walkable Street project. By reducing the number of vehicle lanes and providing dedicated spaces for pedestrians and cyclists, the NMC hopes to encourage more people to utilize this transformed road. This innovative approach is expected to create a win-win situation for all stakeholders, promoting healthier lifestyles, reducing congestion, and fostering a more vibrant and livable cityscape.
