Application of fuzzy analytical hierarchy process to develop walkability index: a case study of Dwarka sub city, New Delhi, India

Abstract

Walkability is an important aspect of the built environment, influencing the degree and intensity of walking. Very little research effort has been made in cities of developing countries like India to incorporate the user’s perspective in evolving walkability indices. This research study is an attempt to develop a walkability index from the user’s perspective in a developing environment, which shall aid the city planners in evaluating the quality of the walking environment objectively and systematically. For the development of the walkability index in the present study, empirical investigations were carried out in the Dwarka sub-city comprising street surveys incorporating pedestrian perspective and pedestrian counts. A fuzzy analytical hierarchy process with extent analysis has been performed, incorporating user ratings on critical walkability parameters to estimate the criteria weights and evolving a new path-level walkability index. It is concluded that this index exhibits a better correlation with pedestrian count when compared to the walkability index based on the existing prevalent approach adopted in the Indian context. The new walkability index will aid city planners in identifying specific pedestrian-related shortcomings as well as assist in evolving informed decision making to prioritize infrastructure investments.