A Methodological Framework for Prioritizing and Enhancing Built Environment Attributes Affecting Pedestrian Walkability in Indian Markets

Indian markets often suffer from poor pedestrian infrastructure and hazardous walking conditions. This study investigates the multifaceted nature of pedestrian walkability within these challenging environments. Subsequently, it pinpoints the built environment attributes contributing to low walkability and proposes solutions to enhance the performance of targeted attributes. Multiattribute decision-making techniques, such as analytical hierarchy process and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), were employed to determine the walkability score of various market roads. Additionally, the study breaks down walkability into three distinct aspects—safety, mobility, and streetscape—to further evaluate the impact of different built environment attributes on pedestrian walkability. Findings revealed critical deficiencies in footpath infrastructure, particularly footpath railings, underscoring the urgent need for interventions to enhance pedestrian walkability. Similarly, pedestrian amenities, specifically public toilets, emerged as a significant area requiring improvement to promote public health and foster an inclusive walking environment. The study highlights the importance of addressing the existing aspects of the walking environment to create pedestrian-friendly market spaces. By identifying the key attributes influencing walkability, this research provides actionable insights for policymakers to develop targeted strategies and prioritize interventions to improve the pedestrian experience in markets, ultimately contributing to sustainable urban development.