In order to develop streetscape of Srinagar city at par under Srinagar Master Plan, 2035 the authorities are mulling to make all roads pedestrian, disabled and bicycle friendly. Further qualitative lighting system, street trees species to be selected to create continuous canopy besides the draft recommends guidelines for proper vending zones in the city.
As per the draft of Srinagar Master Plan – 2035, it is essential to create a walk-able, pedestrian-friendly environment that invites repeat visits from near and far. All roads should be made pedestrian, disabled and bicycle friendly. However, it is possible only after removal of encroachments from sidewalks as this is a key factor in achieving the developed streetscape of Srinagar city.
The draft recommended guidelines for persons having disabilities under Disabilities Act 1995. There must be a provision for introducing cycle tracks, pedestrian and disabled friendly features in arterial and sub-arterial roads. Also, provision of adequate pedestrian facilities as per applicable design and engineering guidelines on all streets is required. The draft mentions that sidewalk and footpath materials must be slip-resistant and easy to maintain (smooth for snow removal and resistant to buckling and cracking).
According to the draft, the National Policy on Urban Street Vendors, 2009 recommends guidelines for proper vending zones, as they are service providers on sidewalks. The policy recognized street vendors (or micro-entrepreneur) as – an integral and legitimate part of the urban retail trade and distribution system. It said the designated zones for such activities must be planned at the zonal level.
The draft mentions that trees are an important component of all streets and contribute towards the image of the city, adding the trees and planters can be installed at seating areas along edges of parking slots, in pedestrian plazas, and in clustered furnishing areas.
It also mentions that street trees species should be selected so as to create a continuous canopy at maturity however it has been suggested the branching height of mature trees shall be a minimum of 8 feet in height for an unobstructed footpath or sidewalk.
The SMP, 2035 suggested that street furniture including benches in areas of high pedestrian traffic and/ or areas of interest is very important and the design must take into consideration the local context of terms of weather resistance and material selection.
Also, dustbins and garbage collectors are an important streetscape element and should be conveniently located for pedestrian traffic near benches, bus stops, and other activity nodes.
“Flyovers inevitably have a major visual impact, generally being unattractive. They must be tackled accordingly keeping the mass and scale in size by using plantation (climbers), or other ways like art to generate a visual interest as mitigative measures. Public art encourages pedestrian activity and humanizes the scale of a street. Important nodes can be identified for permanent or temporary art installation. A successful example of the impact of public art is the mural under the Hyderpora flyover that received an overwhelming response from the public”, the plan reads.
Under the plan the qualitative street lights have been inculcated at a pivotal location to help in creating a safer and desirable environment. “Quality street lighting helps define a positive urban character and can help create a safer and desirable environment. Street lighting includes roadway and pedestrian lighting in the public right-of-way”, it maintains.
