The Indian government is developing a network of pedestrian-friendly shadow roads in Delhi. (File pic)
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”. 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.
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.
Officials said different agencies made presentations proposing additional road stretches and tunnels. The meeting was attended by senior officials from various ministries, Delhi Traffic Police, Delhi PWD and other agencies. The housing and urban affairs ministry has been directed to hold meetings with agencies concerned to take proposals forward, they added.