NEW DELHI: Govt is working on a plan to develop a network of “shadow roads” in Delhi by linking parks, green spaces and other open areas to create pedestrian routes that would allow people to walk without having to use main roads.TOI has learnt that a reference to this concept was made at a meeting in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), where a detailed review was held on managing the capital’s traffic, amid growing number of vehicles and rising congestion. Officials said the concept of shadow roads would be part of Delhi Master Plan 2047, which has identified pedestrian safety as a priority, with a focus on promoting “walk to work”.The meeting was attended by senior officials from various ministries, Delhi Traffic Police, Delhi PWD and other agencies. Officials said different agencies made presentations proposing additional road stretches and tunnels. The housing and urban affairs ministry has been directed to hold meetings with agencies concerned to take proposals forward, they added.The proposal of a shadow road assumes significance as pedestrian deaths in Delhi rose from 584 in 2024 to 649 in 2025, highlighting the need for safer walking infrastructure. Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, underscoring the importance of pedestrian access and safety.The proposed network could build on Green Connect Network concept under Delhi’s urban planning framework, which envisages linking parks, forests, biodiversity parks and ecological corridors to improve connectivity between green spaces and recreational areas.
