The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has floated an INR 384 crore tender to install bollards at entry and exit points of pavements across Mumbai.
It is part of the civic body’s push to make footpaths pedestrian and differently-abled-friendly under its Universal Footpath Policy.
While installing the railings and bollards, a space will be provided where wheelchairs can move around, said BMC Additional Commissioner Abhijeet Bangar.
This measure is being taken to prevent unauthorised parking and plying of two-wheelers, encroachment on the footpath and illegal entry, giving priority to pedestrian safety.
A senior official of the municipality said that since GFRC material is durable, rust-proof and long-lasting, the maintenance cost will be relatively low.
This initiative will be especially important for school children, senior citizens and the disabled.
Amid mounting criticism, civic officials said the design was being reconsidered. Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar said recently the corporation was exploring a staggered or zigzag arrangement of bollards instead of a straight-line alignment to allow wheelchair access while still preventing two-wheelers from entering footpaths.
Two years ago, the court's attention was drawn to this issue through a public interest lawsuit initiated by Shivaji Park resident Karan Shah, who uses a wheelchair since childhood due to type III muscular atrophy. He highlighted the problems caused by the bollards. His email prompted the Bombay High Court (HC) to take a sup moto cognizance of the issue.
As per Mumbai Mirror, Shah said the redesign could work if implemented thoughtfully but urged the BMC to consult persons with disabilities before finalising the approach.
Read More: BMC Plans For Underground Markets In City To Reduce Illegal Hawkers On Roads, Footpaths
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