Bengaluru push for active mobility law gains momentum

Bengaluru's long-standing battle with traffic congestion and air pollution could see a significant legal intervention. A coalition of urban planners, civic activists, and transport experts is pushing for a legislation that would mandate active mobility infrastructure — pedestrian paths, cycle tracks, and safe crossings — in all new residential and commercial developments across the city.

The proposed law, still in its early drafting stages, aims to shift Bengaluru away from its car-centric design. If enacted, it would require developers to allocate a minimum percentage of land for non-motorised transport facilities, making walking and cycling safer and more convenient.

Why the push now?

Bengaluru's vehicle population has crossed the one-crore mark, with over 6,000 new vehicles added daily. The city's average commute speed has dropped to under 15 km/h during peak hours. Pedestrians and cyclists account for nearly 40% of road fatalities, despite being the most vulnerable road users.

Advocates argue that the current system prioritises cars over people. Existing footpaths are often encroached upon by parked vehicles or vendors, and dedicated cycle tracks are almost non-existent outside a few isolated stretches. The proposed legislation seeks to make these facilities a legal requirement, not an afterthought.

What the law would do

The draft framework, prepared by a group of urban designers and legal experts, proposes that any new housing society, commercial complex, or mixed-use development above a certain size must include a minimum 10% of its total area for pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. This includes wide, obstruction-free footpaths, shaded cycle lanes, and raised crossings at intersections.

Existing roads would also be retrofitted under a phased plan. The law would empower the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to designate certain corridors as 'active mobility zones', where motorised traffic would be restricted or slowed down. Violations by developers or civic authorities would attract penalties.

Support and opposition

Supporters include the Bengaluru Mobility Forum, several residents' welfare associations, and environmental groups. They point to successful models in cities like Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and even Indian cities like Pune, which have implemented similar policies. A senior urban planner involved in the drafting said, “This is about reclaiming public space for people. It's a long overdue legal framework.”

However, the proposal faces resistance. Real estate developers argue that mandating space for cycling and walking will increase construction costs and reduce saleable area. Some city officials worry about enforcement and the financial burden of retrofitting existing roads. They question whether the city has the political will to prioritise pedestrians over cars.

Political and legal hurdles

The legislation would require approval from the Karnataka state assembly. Given the strong influence of the real estate lobby, its passage is not guaranteed. Some political parties have expressed cautious support, but others remain non-committal. The draft is expected to be introduced for discussion in the upcoming monsoon session.

Legal experts note that the bill would need to align with existing town planning and road safety laws. A former transport commissioner said, “The framework is sound, but implementation will be the real test. You can't just pass a law; you need a dedicated enforcement mechanism.”

The coming months will be critical. The draft bill is likely to be circulated for public comments before being formally tabled. Activists plan to hold a series of public meetings to build awareness and pressure lawmakers. Whether Bengaluru becomes a model for active mobility in India or remains a cautionary tale of urban gridlock will depend on the decisions made in the assembly this year.