Inclusive Urban Design: Enhancing Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety in Islamabad’s Expanding Road Networks

Abstract

The phenomenon of urban growth in recent years especially in Islamabad has promoted enhanced construction and development of the road network that enhances vehicular operation. But these extensions failed to promote safety for pedestrians and cyclists and became ironic that better infrastructure endangers non-motorized users. This study examines the effects of Islamabad’s Road extensions on pedestrian and cyclist safety using conceptual theories including Risk Homeostasis Theory, Environmental Stress Theory, and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. A detailed on-site study was made on different roads including behavioral patterns of traffic, prevailing conditions and adequacy of available infrastructures. According to the study, large lanes result in traffic movements although they increase risks of accidents for the weaker road users because of elevated speeds and lack of pedestrian infrastructure. Among policy advice developed the inclusion of pedestrian and cyclist facilities, traffic calming and environmental considerations for urban design are highlighted. This is further affirmed by the study pointing that the coordination of technology and the public in the planning of cities is fundamental if safety and mobility are to be met in the plurality of the city.