The project is expected to necessitate an investment of around $5 to $6 million.
Contacted by phone, the lord mayor, Dr Mamade Kodabaccus underlined that a team of foreign experts from Halcrow Group that came to the island made several proposals.
“On Friday, we had a meeting with the experts and they will be back in April to proceed with the project,” he added.
The lord mayor highlighted that it will take some time to materialise but will be beneficial in the long run. “We want to put an end to the emission of carbon dioxide to allow Port Louis to breathe properly. Roads and car parks will have to be redefined. People should also be able to move and do their shopping freely,” he added.
He pointed out that the concept has been adopted in many foreign countries and has proved to be a phenomenal success.
“It has been noted that many businesses including retail shops and restaurants have seen their profits rise considerably with the creation of such zones. Notably, the number of accidents, traffic and pollution has also declined after this has been implemented,” outlined the lord mayor.
