The Corporation of Madurai has approved the adoption of the Complete Streets Policy, Comprehensive Road and Street Design Guidelines, and Parking Policy, marking a major step towards creating safer, more accessible, climate resilient and people-centric streets.
A press release issued on Friday said that the policies were approved by the Corporation Council earlier in June 2026 and were prepared by the Madurai Municipal Corporation with technical support from ITDP (Institute for Transportation and Development Policy) India under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). signed in January 2026.
“With increasing vehicle ownership, Madurai is facing several issues like growing traffic congestion, inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, haphazard parking, and unorganised street vending. To address these challenges, the Corporation has adopted these policy frameworks to guide the planning, design, and management of streets and parking across the city,” said Gaurav Kumar, Commissioner, Madurai Corporation.
Each approved policy and guideline will tackle specific issues.
The Complete Streets Policy sets the vision for safe, inclusive, and accessible streets that prioritise pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users, of different ages and abilities. The policy states that all 12m wide roads should have a minimum of 2m wide footpath on each side, and all 93 wide roads should have a minimum of 2m wide footpath on either one side.
The Comprehensive Road and Street Design Guidelines establish standard design principles for footpaths, accessible crossings, tree-lined streets, Multi Utility Zones (MUZ), organised vending areas, carriageways, utilities, and stormwater infrastructure to improve walkability, safety, and the quality of public spaces.
This is the first of its kind guidelines the city agencies would have for road and street design.
The Parking Policy introduces demand-based parking management through pricing, regulation and enforcement, while promoting public transport and reinvesting parking revenues into walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure.
The policies align with the recommendations of Mobility of the Madurai Master Plan 2044 standards. As part of the implementation strategy, the Corporation would undertake phased street improvement projects and prepare area-based parking management plans.
Areas surrounding Meenakshi Temple would be prioritised first. “It is an opportune time for cities like Madurai which are at the cusp of growth, to adopt sustainable-mobility friendly policies. This will set the crucial vision for future decisions and budget allocations,” added Sangami P N, senior associate, ITDP India.
The Madurai Corporation remains committed to transforming its streets into safe, vibrant and inclusive public spaces that enhance mobility, support local businesses, improve public health, and contribute to a more liveable and sustainable city, Mr. Gaurav Kumar said.
Published – October 09, 2026 09:27 pm IST
