Inclusive future ahead! Mumbai civic body to develop accessible footpaths for differently abled

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is currently racing against time to complete its annual pre-monsoon roadwork. But this year, the Mumbai civic body is also paying special attention to developing accessible footpaths. Under the leadership of Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar, BMC is ensuring that newly built pavements alongside concrete roads are inclusively designed for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), the elderly, and the visually impaired.

IIT Bombay roped in for smarter designs

During recent inspections in Mulund, Powai, and Chembur, Abhijit Bangar emphasised strict adherence to Indian Roads Congress (IRC) standards, mandating tactile tiles, smooth surfaces, and gradual slopes. Footpaths should be barrier-free and accessible, he said, noting how uneven chambers and poor finishes often disrupt mobility. To address these issues, BMC is consulting experts, including IIT Bombay, for smarter designs.

With a May 20 deadline for concrete work and May 31 for final surfacing, the civic body is also prioritising high-quality finishing, thermoplastic markings, cat eyes, and proper signage, to rebuild public trust. This shift in civic focus from just road construction to people-first design signals a more inclusive vision for Mumbai’s public spaces.