A walkable neighbourhood provides usable routes between homes and everyday destinations. A new footpath is only one part of that network. In Kashmir, a route assessment should consider gradients, seasonal conditions and the needs of people who move at different speeds.
Follow complete journeys
Map routes to shops, schools, public transport and shared spaces. Walk them with local users and note where a continuous journey breaks down: an unsafe crossing, steps without an alternative, a blocked passage or a stretch that repeatedly collects water.
UN-Habitat’s neighbourhood principles link connected street networks with mixed uses. [1] Proximity on a map, however, does not establish that a destination is safely accessible on foot.
Fix the difficult connections
Prioritise missing links and hazardous transitions before adding decorative paving. Review crossing arrangements with the responsible authority. Provide resting places and consider shade where people wait or where journeys are demanding.
Allow for cleaning, drainage maintenance and the removal of obstructions. Revisit the route with users after changes are made. Record whether the difficult part of the journey has improved, including for people using mobility aids or accompanying children.