Walking is fundamental to urban life. It is a healthy and pollution-free form of mobility and recreation. Pedestrian trips account for a quarter to a third of all trips in many Indian cities. However, the poor quality of pedestrian infrastructure sends a message that pedestrians are not welcome in the urban environment.

Fortunately, street design practice in India is beginning to recognise the integral role of walking in any sustainable transport system. Increasingly, engineers and planners are emphasising the need to design “complete streets” that make walking safe, comfortable, and convenient. Reflecting this changing outlook, the Indian Road Congress’ (IRC) First Revision of the Guidelines for Pedestrian Facilities represents a significant departure from traditional traffic engineering practice, which focused on maximising personal motor vehicle speeds at the expense of other street users. The Guidelines emphasise the need to design streets for all users and activities, including the social and economic activities that make Indian streets so vibrant.

This quick reference guide highlights key concepts from the IRC Guidelines, including footpath design standards. The guide also draws from local and international best practice for some themes not covered in the IRC publication.

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Maintaining high quality standards and excellent customer service will be critical to the successful roll-out of cycle sharing in India over the coming years. Public cycle sharing systems: A planning toolkit for Indian cities introduces the key ingredients of best practice cycle sharing systems. The toolkit draws from lessons learned from cycle sharing projects around the world while presenting adaptations to administrative structures and transport system typologies found in the Indian context.

Modern cycle sharing systems employ information technology systems to ensure security, provide real-time customer information, and facilitate the redistribution of cycles. These IT features enable the operator to ensure that cycles are available when and where users need them. IT systems also provide a way for the implementing agency to monitor system status and ensure that the operator meets service level standards. A combination of good engineering and constant oversight on the part of the government will ensure that cycle sharing systems can attract a diverse set of users.

The toolkit was developed on behalf of the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India, as part of India’s National Public Bicycle Scheme. The toolkit reflects the input of numerous stakeholders during a series of public consultations in 2011 and 2012. ITDP wishes to thank the Chairperson of the working group, B. I. Singal, Director General of the Institute of Urban Transport, and all those who provided input and support for the preparation of the document.

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