The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is now integrating accessibility features into its ongoing pre-monsoon roadworks.
The civic body, under the guidance of Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar, is prioritising footpaths that are user-friendly for persons with disabilities (PwDs), the elderly, and the visually impaired. As Mumbai races to complete its annual road improvement projects, including concrete layering and final surfacing by May 31, a parallel effort is underway to ensure new pavements comply with Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines. These include tactile tiles, smooth gradient transitions, and the removal of physical obstructions—factors often ignored in traditional footpath construction. During recent site reviews in Mulund, Chembur, and Powai, Bangar directed officials to strictly avoid uneven chambers, abrupt kerbs, and poor surface finishes. “Footpaths must be barrier-free and truly accessible,” he stated, stressing that minor construction flaws significantly hinder mobility for vulnerable groups.
To enhance technical precision and inclusivity, BMC is also consulting with design experts and researchers from IIT Bombay. The collaboration is expected to introduce smarter, evidence-backed infrastructure solutions to Mumbai’s road networks. The civic body has further committed to using thermoplastic road markings, cat-eye reflectors, and clear signage to elevate road safety and aesthetics—moves aimed at restoring public confidence in BMC’s urban planning.
This shift from conventional roadwork to people-first design marks a significant transformation in Mumbai’s civic outlook, reflecting a broader intent to create equitable and inclusive public spaces for all.
