India's Top Cities Harbor 106 Million Square Feet of Transit-Oriented Development Potential
India’s leading cities offer a significant opportunity to develop over 106 million square feet of transit-oriented development (TOD) real estate, centered around key transport hubs. This potential is driven by expanding mass transit infrastructure and mixed-use development principles.
TodReal EstateUrban DevelopmentMass TransitSustainabilityReal Estate NewsSep 04, 2025
Delhi-NCR leads the pack with 32 million square feet of potential, supported by its expanding metro network and major transport hubs such as the Dwarka Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT), Aerocity ISBT, and the upcoming Jewar International Airport. The city’s robust transport infrastructure is a key driver of TOD development, making it an attractive hub for both residential and commercial projects.
Mumbai follows with 20 million square feet of potential, thanks to its well-established transport network and ongoing infrastructure projects. Chennai ranks third with 13 million square feet, driven by key projects like the Chennai Airport and the Peripheral Ring Road. These projects are transforming the city’s landscape and enhancing connectivity for residents and businesses.
Other cities, including Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Pune, are also witnessing TOD-linked growth as mass transit infrastructure expands. For instance, Hyderabad’s rapid transit system and the ongoing development of the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport are contributing to the city’s TOD potential. Similarly, Kolkata’s metro expansion and the development of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport are driving TOD initiatives in the eastern metropolis.
TOD is reshaping urban development by integrating residential, commercial, retail, and leisure spaces into mixed-use ecosystems that enhance accessibility and sustainability. Developers are aligning with TOD principles to create integrated live-work-play corridors, improving connectivity for residents and adding value for businesses and retailers. For example, the integration of residential complexes with commercial spaces and public transport hubs is making urban living more convenient and eco-friendly.
However, challenges around land acquisition, financing, and outdated land-use regulations remain. These hurdles can impede the smooth development of TOD projects. CBRE recommends policy reforms, flexible zoning, improved walkability, and innovative financing tools such as land-value capture to fully unlock TOD’s potential in shaping India’s future-ready cities. Addressing these challenges is crucial to realizing the full benefits of TOD, which include reduced traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and enhanced quality of life.
In conclusion, the potential for TOD in India’s top cities is vast and promising. By adopting a holistic approach to urban development and addressing the existing challenges, these cities can transform into more sustainable, connected, and livable spaces. The integration of TOD principles is not just a development strategy but a pathway to a more inclusive and resilient urban future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is transit-oriented development (TOD)?
Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a type of urban development that integrates residential, commercial, retail, and leisure spaces around public transport hubs such as metro stations, railway hubs, and bus terminals. It aims to enhance accessibility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable living.
Which city has the highest potential for TOD in India?
Delhi-NCR has the highest potential for TOD in India, with an estimated 32 million square feet of potential real estate development linked to transit-oriented projects.
What are the key challenges in implementing TOD in Indian cities?
The key challenges in implementing TOD in Indian cities include land acquisition, financing, outdated land-use regulations, and the need for policy reforms and flexible zoning.
How does TOD contribute to sustainability?
TOD contributes to sustainability by reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting walkability. It also enhances the quality of life by integrating residential, commercial, and leisure spaces, making urban living more convenient and eco-friendly.
What are some recommended strategies to unlock the full potential of TOD in India?
To unlock the full potential of TOD in India, CBRE recommends policy reforms, flexible zoning, improved walkability, and innovative financing tools such as land-value capture. These strategies can help address the existing challenges and facilitate the development of sustainable and connected urban spaces.
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