Delhi Master Plan 2047 proposes walking and cycling corridors

Chandni Chowk, Hauz Khas Village and Adhchini could get pedestrian corridors designed to make the last stretch from a Metro station safer and smoother.

The Master Plan for Delhi 2047 proposes active travel areas in commercial districts, heritage precincts and locations identified for a 24-hour economy. These zones would prioritise walking and cycling, with the stated aim of easing congestion, improving safety and cutting emissions. Officials said stronger links to public transport could also support restaurants, businesses and cultural activity in these areas.

The plan also proposes active travel networks: continuous routes for non-motorised travel, including wheelchair users. Roads at least 30 metres wide could be considered, subject to feasibility, along with cycling highways and greenways near natural drains and the Yamuna.

DDA has prepared walk plans for 14 of 24 priority areas identified earlier and sent them to the agencies that own the roads. The plan also suggests temporary measures such as pop-up bike lanes, painted plazas and movable planters. Its transport approach sits alongside proposed congestion charges and tighter parking rules for private vehicles.

Former DDA planning commissioner Sabyasachi Das said pedestrianisation efforts had previously faced resistance because supporting infrastructure was inadequate. Road-owning agencies would need to take up the prepared walk plans.