A recent survey conducted by the Chandivli Citizens Welfare Association has brought to light the deteriorating conditions of footpaths in the Powai and Chandivli regions. The study indicated that footpaths on Kherani Road, IRB Road, and DP Road No. 9 are narrowing to a mere 1.4 metres, which is below the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) recommended width of 1.8 metres. Such conditions pose significant risks for pedestrians, particularly the elderly and disabled, who struggle with accessibility.
During the survey, multiple stretches of footpaths were evaluated, highlighting several persistent issues. Prominent among these were hawker encroachments, which not only obstruct pathways but also force pedestrians onto the streets, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, parked vehicles were found blocking footpaths, further complicating safe passage for walkers.
- Hawker encroachments — obstruct pathways and endanger pedestrian safety.
- High kerbs — create barriers for those with mobility issues.
The situation is exacerbated by the accumulation of garbage in several areas, making footpaths not only unsafe but also unpleasant for users. Some locations were even reported to have no footpaths at all, forcing pedestrians to navigate through traffic. The survey's findings are a call to action for local authorities to address these pressing issues.
