Guidelines on Regulation and Control of Mixed Traffic in Urban Areas (First Revision)
2017 Edition

IRC 70 recommends clear separation between pedestrian and cycling paths to ensure user safety. This can be achieved through physical or visual barriers such as raised kerbs, marked boundaries, and a multifunctional buffer zone between 1.5 to 2 meters wide that accommodates street furniture, trees, utilities, and parking spaces. Cycle tracks should be distinguished by contrasting colors or surface materials alongside proper signage. In certain mixed-use streets, cyclists may share pedestrian zones with special provisions to safeguard vulnerable users. This approach facilitates safe and efficient movement for all traffic participants in mixed urban environments.

IRC 70 prioritizes pedestrian safety by advocating for well-planned footpaths with adequate width and clearance. It specifies a minimum pedestrian zone width starting at 1.8 meters in residential areas, increasing to 2.5 meters in commercial zones and up to 4 meters in high-intensity commercial districts. Footpaths should offer a clear height of at least 2.2 meters, remain free from obstructions, and have a safe, slip-resistant surface accessible to all, including those with disabilities. Additionally, a multi-functional zone of 1 to 2 meters provides space for utilities and street furniture, ensuring uninterrupted pedestrian flow and comfort.

The standard promotes a comprehensive parking management approach that includes regulating on-street parking to minimize interference with pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit without increasing total parking capacity. It endorses dynamic pricing to adjust fees based on demand, encouraging short-term parking to maximize turnover and discouraging long-term parking. Real-time monitoring via IT systems enhances enforcement and transparency. Parking is managed through designated districts and block faces with clear user information systems. Reclaimed space from parking reduction is ideally converted to sustainable transport infrastructure, supporting a modal shift and reducing urban congestion.

According to IRC 70 Clause 13.8, managing traffic near construction sites requires prioritizing safety for workers and users by scheduling work during off-peak or nighttime hours to minimize disruption. The guidelines emphasize maintaining safe, accessible paths for pedestrians and cyclists, including those with disabilities. Effective use of traffic control devices such as reflective cones, signage, and lane delineations, following IRC:SP:55 and IRC:67 standards, is essential. Early coordination with emergency services, transit providers, utilities, and institutions is required. Special attention is given to controlling heavy vehicle movements and providing accessible information for visually impaired pedestrians.

IRC 70 regulates animal drawn vehicles by enforcing load limits to prevent overburdening and requiring red flags on loads that extend beyond the vehicle length for visibility. Signage must be placed near commercial and high traffic areas, and these vehicles may face restrictions or bans on major routes during peak hours based on local conditions. While IRC 70 primarily focuses on structural aspects, operational rules for motorized two-wheelers are generally addressed by traffic regulations. These measures collectively ensure safety and smooth traffic flow involving these special vehicle types.