BMC Removes Ramps For Safer Footpaths: Pedestrian Movement Now The Top Priority

To make Mumbai's footpaths safer and more accessible for pedestrians, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced a strict "no ramp on footpath" policy. This initiative is part of the ongoing road concreting and footpath repairs carried out by the BMC, as per a Mid-day report.

As part of these works, ramps that had been built by societies and commercial buildings for vehicle movement were removed. On March 5, mid-day reported an issue faced by Crescent Grande on Old Nagardas Road, Andheri East, where, after road work, the street level was lowered, making it difficult for the society to construct a new ramp.

Upon further investigation, mid-day revealed that the BMC is strictly enforcing its "pedestrian-first" policy. According to BMC officials, once the road, drains, and footpaths are completed, no ramps that hinder walkability will be allowed.

Pedestrian Movement Is The Priority

"Ramps on footpaths disturb walkability. We have decided that pedestrian movement should not be compromised," explained Abhijit Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner. He added that the BMC has developed two solutions to address concerns regarding accessibility.

"First, we taper the height of the footpath to match the building entrance while maintaining walkability. This works in most cases. Second, we suggest that occupants build a ramp within their premises up to the footpath level. If issues persist, we assess them on a case-by-case basis," he said.

However, some residents and activists have raised concerns over the policy's implementation. Civic activist Zoru Bhathena questioned the policy, highlighting discrepancies in the planning process. "The BMC approved building plans where entrances are higher than the road level. Now, after the concreting, the road heights have changed, creating new problems. Who is at fault here?" he asked.

Residents Raise Concerns

Residents have also expressed concerns over fairness in applying the policy. Dhaval Shah, a resident of Andheri West, pointed out that there should be a uniform policy for both residential and commercial buildings. "I have personally seen commercial buildings raise footpath heights outside their premises, making walking difficult. The BMC must monitor this," he said. BMC officials confirmed that the policy applies to all buildings, both residential and commercial.

Activists' Views On The Policy

Milind Mhaske, CEO of the Praja Foundation, welcomed the move, emphasising the need for walkable footpaths. "Footpaths must remain walkable, but the BMC must also prevent encroachments," he said, encouraging citizens to support the initiative.

Advocate Jamshed Mistry, a member of the Board of Advisors for Able Disabled All People Together (ADAPT) and amicus curiae in the Bombay High Court's footpath bollard case, stressed that the BMC must follow established guidelines. "There are harmonised policies for footpaths that should be followed. The BMC cannot make arbitrary decisions and should consult the state advisory committee, as per the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016," Mistry said.

As Mumbai works towards creating pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, the BMC's new policy has sparked a mix of support and concern from both residents and activists.