THESIS ABSTRACT

Abstract

This research presents a methodology for evaluating and enhancing the safety and walkability of sidewalks and crosswalks in Kathmandu Metropolitan City. The research begins by identifying 16 key attributes for sidewalks and 11 for crosswalks, which are critical for pedestrian infrastructure in Nepal. These attributes were carefully selected through an extensive review of existing literature. To prioritize these attributes effectively, the study employed the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), which involved consulting experts to determine the relative importance of each attribute. Additionally, user perceptions were analyzed using SPSS, allowing the study to capture a more comprehensive view of pedestrian needs and preferences. Based on these analyses, the study developed two indices, the Sidewalk Condition Index (SCI) and the Crosswalk Condition Index (CCI) which were used to assess the current state of pedestrian infrastructure in the city. The study specifically focused on six urban road sections in Kathmandu metropolitan city that have experienced the highest pedestrian fatalities over the last three years, using the SCI and CCI scores to rank these road sections according to their safety and walkability. The findings of this research underscore the significant impact of various attributes on pedestrian safety and walkability, including the presence of effective signal control systems, well-marked zebra crossings, adequate sidewalk lighting, and physical barriers that separate pedestrians from traffic. The study suggests various focused interventions to address these problems, including creating zones only for pedestrians to walk, making sure sidewalks are regularly maintained, enforcing stronger penalties for jaywalking, and reworking traffic signals to incorporate pedestrian-specific phases. To increase safety at important, carefully chosen metropolitan roadways, zebra crossings and refugee islands should be installed. This approach not only offers a thorough evaluation of the current pedestrian infrastructure but also provides practical recommendations for enhancing safety and walkability in Kathmandu metropolitan city and other urban areas in Nepal. The study's findings are intended to serve as a valuable resource for urban planners, policymakers, and other stakeholders committed to creating safer and more walkable environments for pedestrians.

Keywords

Pedestrian Safety, Walkability, Sidewalks, Crosswalks, Condition index