Optimizing Pedestrian Safety: A Spatial Analysis Approach to Grade-Separated Pedestrian Crossings in Haripur City, Pakistan

Abstract

This study aims to explore the application of spatial analysis to identify optimal locations for Grade-Separated Pedestrian Crossings (GSPCs) to improve pedestrian safety. The rise of motorized vehicles has increased dependency on automobiles and reduced pedestrian activities. Despite walking's resurgence due to health benefits, pedestrian safety remains critical, with pedestrians accounting for 50% of road fatalities in Pakistan. Hazardous road-crossing behaviors necessitate effective planning and design of pedestrian infrastructure. This study employs spatial analysis, incorporating global and local radius analyses of vehicular and pedestrian dynamics. This method integrates data on pedestrian safety and vehicular movement, proving objective results compared to the traditional survey methods. Spatial analysis identified optimal locations for GSPCs, providing a framework for enhancing pedestrian safety and optimizing GSPC placement. Meticulous planning is crucial to prevent underutilization and ensure cost-effectiveness. This approach may be extended to other urban areas to enhance pedestrian infrastructure.