In the bustling urban landscape of Bandung, Indonesia, a critical evaluation of pedestrian infrastructure has shed light on the often-overlooked needs of city dwellers. Gildan Kantona Hamdani, a researcher from Institut Teknologi Bandung, has conducted a comprehensive study focusing on the Jalan W. R. Supratman area, revealing significant gaps in the planning and provision of adequate pedestrian infrastructure. This research, published in ‘RUAS’ (which translates to ‘ROADS’), underscores the importance of prioritizing pedestrian safety and comfort in urban development.
The study employs the Pedestrian Environment Quality Index (PEQI), a quantitative tool that assesses the quality and safety of the physical environment for pedestrians. By combining PEQI with applicable regulatory standards in Indonesia, Hamdani’s research provides a nuanced understanding of the current state of pedestrian infrastructure. “The uneven distribution of planning and provision of adequate pedestrian infrastructure stems from its focus on specific roads in certain areas,” Hamdani explains. This focus often leaves other areas, particularly residential and commercial zones, with inadequate facilities for pedestrians.
The findings are stark: the pedestrian infrastructure in the Jalan W. R. Supratman area is inadequate, posing challenges for residents and visitors alike. This inadequacy not only affects the daily lives of pedestrians but also has commercial implications. Poor pedestrian infrastructure can deter foot traffic, impacting local businesses that rely on walk-in customers. “Improvements are needed to increase pedestrian interest in this area,” Hamdani emphasizes, highlighting the potential for enhanced pedestrian infrastructure to boost local commerce and community engagement.
The research serves as a wake-up call for urban planners and policymakers in Bandung and beyond. By identifying specific areas for improvement, the study provides a roadmap for stakeholders to take action. This could involve widening sidewalks, installing better lighting, and creating more pedestrian-friendly intersections. Such improvements could significantly enhance the quality of life for residents and attract more visitors to the area, fostering economic growth.
The commercial impacts of this research extend to the energy sector as well. As cities strive to become more sustainable, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure can reduce reliance on motor vehicles, lowering carbon emissions and energy consumption. By promoting walking as a viable mode of transportation, urban areas can contribute to broader environmental goals, aligning with global sustainability initiatives.
Hamdani’s work is a call to action for urban planners and policymakers to prioritize pedestrian infrastructure in their development plans. The results of this study can serve as a basis for future projects, ensuring that cities are designed with the needs of all residents in mind. As Bandung and other urban centers continue to grow, the lessons learned from this research will be invaluable in shaping more livable and sustainable cities.