India's Major Cities Set for 106 Million Sq. Ft. of Transit-Oriented Real Estate: CBRE Report
A CBRE report reveals that India’s eight largest cities could see over 106 million sq. ft. of new real estate at metro, rail, and bus hubs, driven by expanding public transport networks and supportive policies.
Real EstateTransitoriented DevelopmentUrban GrowthCbreIndiaReal Estate MumbaiSep 03, 2025
According to the report, the Delhi-NCR region has the highest potential at about 32 million sq. ft., supported by its extensive metro network, inter-state bus terminals, and railway stations. Mumbai follows with 20 million sq. ft., while Chennai has about 13 million sq. ft. of potential development. Other cities, including Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Pune, are also seeing increased transit-oriented development (TOD) activity as their public transport networks expand.
TOD projects typically combine commercial and residential uses with walking and cycling spaces, as well as multi-modal transport facilities. In Delhi-NCR, planned sites such as Dwarka ISBT, Aerocity ISBT, and Jewar International Airport, along with existing hubs like Sarai Rohilla and Hindon Airport, have been identified as high-potential areas. In Mumbai, key locations include Bandra, Dadar, Mumbai CST, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. In Chennai, TOD opportunities are linked to Chennai Airport, the Maduravoyal Expressway, and the Peripheral Ring Road.
The National TOD Policy and state-level frameworks in Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are expected to support such projects by providing higher floor area ratios and compact urban growth models. Anshuman Magazine, Chairman & CEO - India, South-East Asia, Middle East & Africa, CBRE, emphasized the importance of TOD in shaping cities. “TOD paves the way for mixed-use communities that are commercially viable, sustainable, and liveable. As metro networks and transport hubs expand across urban India, TOD will play a pivotal role in shaping cities. To fully realize this potential, however, challenges around land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations need to be addressed,” he said.
Ram Chandnani, Managing Director, Leasing Services, CBRE India, highlighted the benefits of TOD. “Transit-Oriented Development is fast emerging as a game-changer for India’s urban growth story. Developers are increasingly aligning with TOD principles to design integrated, live-work-play ecosystems. The model not only unlocks greater value for developers but also enhances accessibility for homebuyers, drives higher footfalls for retailers, and improves efficiency for logistics operators,” he added.
The report also included international case studies and suggested measures for Indian stakeholders. These recommendations include the establishment of unified urban transport authorities, simplified development control rules, flexible zoning, land-value capture mechanisms, and improved walkability. These measures aim to create more sustainable and efficient urban environments that can support the growing demands of India’s urban population.
CBRE South Asia Pvt. Ltd. is a leading real estate service company that provides comprehensive services in the areas of property management, leasing, and development. The company’s insights and reports are highly regarded in the industry for their depth and accuracy, making them a valuable resource for stakeholders in the real estate sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)?
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is a type of urban development that maximizes the amount of residential, business, and leisure space within walking distance of public transport. It typically combines commercial and residential uses with walking and cycling spaces, as well as multi-modal transport facilities.
Which city has the highest potential for TOD in India?
The Delhi-NCR region has the highest potential for TOD in India, with about 32 million sq. ft. of new real estate development potential, supported by its extensive metro network, inter-state bus terminals, and railway stations.
What are the key locations for TOD in Mumbai?
Key locations for TOD in Mumbai include Bandra, Dadar, Mumbai CST, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
What are the benefits of TOD for developers and city dwellers?
TOD benefits developers by unlocking greater value and creating commercially viable and sustainable communities. For city dwellers, it enhances accessibility, drives higher footfalls for retailers, and improves efficiency for logistics operators.
What challenges need to be addressed to fully realize the potential of TOD in India?
Challenges that need to be addressed include land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations. These issues can hinder the successful implementation of TOD projects.
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