Development of a Practical Methodology for Evaluating the Conditions of Sidewalks in Dhaka City
Publication: International Conference on Transportation and Development 2024
ABSTRACT
In urban settings like Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, poor sidewalk conditions pose challenges for pedestrians, affecting usability and aesthetics. This study introduces a novel approach utilizing the sidewalk condition index (SCI) to assess sidewalk conditions. Through a comprehensive methodology involving literature review, walking and video surveys, distress assessment, and SCI calibration, 58 sidewalk segments along key routes were analyzed. The study identifies the top eight hazardous areas, leading to a calibrated SCI that categorizes conditions from excellent to poor. These findings provide actionable insights for local government authorities, facilitating prioritization of sidewalk maintenance and budget allocation. The proposed sidewalk management strategy advocates for policy improvements, emphasizing construction, rebuilding, and maintenance, with recommendations including a five-year planning term and cost analysis for each segment. This research serves as a practical guideline for enhancing pedestrian safety and urban aesthetics, underscoring the importance of adequate budget allocation for improving sidewalk infrastructure in Dhaka and similar cities worldwide.
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International Conference on Transportation and Development 2024
Pages: 338 - 349
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Published online: Jun 13, 2024
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