By Charina Cabrido

The Clean Energy Nepal and Clean Air Network Nepal in partnership with the Clean Air Initiatives for Asian Cities conducted the Walkability Training last January  13 to train 15 youth volunteers as Walkability Ambassadors in Kathmandu.  Aimed to improving the pedestrian infrastructures and services in the city, the Walkability Ambassadors braved the streets of Kathmandu to investigate and document public issues and concerns being faced by the pedestrians.

The groups were divided and deployed to four areas; commercial, public transport, residential, educational and stakeholders.  About 300 pedestrian interviews were conducted to analyze travel behavior (time that pedestrians spend for each travel mode), pedestrian preference in terms of infrastructures, degrees of exposure to air pollution and socioeconomic profiles. Field Survey forms were collected to examine road stretches around the city that includes availability of walking paths, motorist behavior, amenities, obstructions, security from crime among others.

For the commercial area, Ason road was chosen as the epicenter wherein 5 kilometers interconnected streets were studied. The Public Transport Areas concentrated on congested Ratna Park, Gongabu, Kalanki and Chabahil. Educational Areas focused on Baneshwor, Bag Bazar and Dilli Bazar while residential areas were Kuleshwor, Lainchaur, Lazimpat, Khusibu and Baneshwor Height.

The results of this study will be evaluated and circulated with concerned officials in the city government for improved planning and investment in pedestrian infrastructure. As a way forward, Clean Energy Nepal will conduct awareness raising amongst general public using electronic and print media and networks with schools as a way to upscale the project.