SAMUEL JOSHUA
BENGALURU: Improved footpaths can make neighbourhoods more attractive to homebuyers, tenants and businesses by improving access to shops, parks and public transport. Bengaluru’s Walkaluru initiative, led by urban activist Arun Pai, highlights how pedestrian-friendly streets can support better urban living and strengthen the appeal of real estate locations.
The initiative grew out of The Ugly Indian, a civic movement that began in 2008 when Pai and volunteers cleaned a garbage dump outside Wipro’s Church Street office. After identifying the problems through direct observation, the team completed the cleanup in three days, demonstrating how citizen-led action could improve public spaces. Pai later focused on footpaths, joining local running groups to assess 100 km of Bengaluru’s pedestrian infrastructure.
Volunteers documented conditions through videos and shared their findings online. The assessment prompted the municipal commissioner to seek a report and agree to address identified problems.
The campaign subsequently organised footpath runs along MG Road and expanded public participation through a 100-km walking event involving 1,500 citizens. Another 26-km citywide walk on January 1 attracted 350 participants, including senior citizens, ministers and senior bureaucrats, highlighting pedestrian challenges across the city.
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Walkability Supports Retail Activity
For the real estate sector, walkability is an important neighbourhood consideration. Convenient access to public transport, schools, retail outlets, and recreational spaces can improve everyday convenience and increase the appeal of residential and commercial properties.
Pedestrian-friendly streets can also encourage more visitors to local businesses. Some studies suggest that improved streetscapes can increase pedestrian traffic and support retail activity.
Properties near transit hubs may also command premiums where connectivity and amenities are strong, although outcomes vary by location and market conditions. Walkaluru underscores the need for developers and urban planners to consider footpaths and pedestrian access alongside building design, amenities and connectivity when creating sustainable neighbourhoods.
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