Visibility matters: Constructing safe passages on the streets of Kolkata

Abstract

Perceptions of safety influence women’s access to public spaces. This study aims to understand how visibility, vigilance, and surveillance influence “eyes on the street,” perceptions of safety, and construct (un)safe passages for women on the streets of Kolkata. The study is based on in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and visual surveys. This study finds that permeable street edges enhance visibility and visual engagements with the observant; whereas impermeable street edges, poorly lit streets, empty streets, and up-market areas instill fear because of low visibility and the presence of fewer people. Women perceive routine activities and vigilance by the shopkeepers, hawkers, and passersby as safe as they can call out for help if needed. Surveillance by the neighborhood people too extends a feeling of safety whereas disciplinary visibility makes streets less accessible. An integrated approach to visibility, vigilance and surveillance can aid in the formulation of comprehensive gender-sensitive urban development guidelines for cities.