If an MoU signed recently between the New Delhi-based CBM Industries Ltd and the Gujarat Urban Development Company Ltd materialises, the state-of-the-art cross canopies will be constructed across the city at the cost of around Rs 100 crore.

Ravindernath Hassija, the managing director of CBM Industries, said, "People tend to ignore sidewalks and foot-over bridges because of the poor infrastructure. The trendy skywalks will attract the pedestrians and also provide a supportive infrastructure to them."

He said skywalks was a popular feature in the Western countries and Ahmedabad being a city with high vehicular traffic, its introduction in the city will prove to be a boon for the pedestrians. The skywalks will be constructed in a phased manner. The six locations identified for the first phase of development, include areas where Iscon Mall and Fun Republic are located.

The cross canopies will ensure crossing on major crossroads safe for common people, specially for office-goers and students in the morning, said the CBM sources. The skywalks will ensure safety to pedestrians, besides lowering traffic congestion in the city. The company's skywalks will have major public facilities. The company also plans to put up shops and eateries on the walkways. "The skywalks will become a prime spot for commercial establishments. All five-star public utility facilities will be provided here," said Hassija.

Apart from putting up cross canopies in the city, the company also plans to set up public utilities at major spots. The utilities like washrooms, restrooms, sitting areas, etc. will also be constructed to improve the city's infrastructure, he said.

The CBM is currently engaged in construction of road infrastructure equipment and it plans to bring the expertise to Gujarat by providing road signage, road safety materials and other road infrastructure necessities to improve the city's traffic management.