India's Top Cities Set to Develop 106 Million Sq. Ft. of Transit-Oriented Real Estate
A report by CBRE South Asia Pvt. Ltd. reveals that India's eight largest cities are poised to add over 106 million sq. ft. of new real estate at metro, rail, and bus hubs, driven by transit-oriented development (TOD) policies.
Transitoriented DevelopmentReal EstateUrban GrowthMixeduse CommunitiesPublic TransportReal Estate NewsSep 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. Other cities, including Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Pune, are also seeing increased 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 these 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 creating mixed-use communities that are commercially viable, sustainable, and liveable. He stated, “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.”
Ram Chandnani, Managing Director, Leasing Services, CBRE India, highlighted the benefits of TOD for various stakeholders. “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.”
The report also discussed international case studies and suggested measures for Indian stakeholders, including the establishment of unified urban transport authorities, simplified development control rules, flexible zoning, land-value capture mechanisms, and improved walkability. These measures are crucial for fully realizing the potential of TOD and addressing challenges such as land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations.
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 Indian cities have the highest potential for TOD projects?
The cities with the highest potential for TOD projects are Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Chennai. Delhi-NCR has the highest potential at about 32 million sq. ft., followed by Mumbai with 20 million sq. ft. and Chennai with 13 million sq. ft.
What are the key benefits of TOD for developers and residents?
TOD offers several benefits, including enhanced accessibility for homebuyers, higher footfalls for retailers, improved efficiency for logistics operators, and the creation of mixed-use communities that are commercially viable, sustainable, and liveable.
What challenges need to be addressed to fully realize the potential of TOD in India?
Challenges include land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations. Addressing these issues is crucial for the successful implementation of TOD projects.
What measures are suggested in the CBRE report to support TOD in India?
The report suggests measures such as the establishment of unified urban transport authorities, simplified development control rules, flexible zoning, land-value capture mechanisms, and improved walkability.
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