India's Top Cities Set to See 106 Million Sq. Ft. of Transit-Oriented Real Estate: Report
India’s eight largest cities are on track to develop over 106 million sq. ft. of new real estate at metro, rail, and bus hubs, according to a report by CBRE South Asia Pvt. Ltd. This development is supported by the National TOD Policy and state-level frameworks.
Transitoriented DevelopmentReal EstateUrban PlanningMetro NetworkMixeduse CommunitiesReal EstateSep 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 witnessing 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 such as 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, said, “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 To fully realize this potential, however, challenges around land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations need to be addressed.”
Ram Chandnani, Managing Director, Leasing Services, CBRE India, said, “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 highlighted international case studies and suggested measures for Indian stakeholders, including unified urban transport authorities, simplified development control rules, flexible zoning, land-value capture mechanisms, and improved walkability. These measures aim to ensure that TOD projects are not only successful but also contribute to sustainable urban development.
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 cities in India have the highest potential for TOD projects?
The cities with the highest potential for TOD projects in India are Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Pune. Delhi-NCR leads with about 32 million sq. ft., followed by Mumbai with 20 million sq. ft., and Chennai with 13 million sq. ft.
What are the key locations identified for TOD in Delhi-NCR?
Key locations for TOD in Delhi-NCR include Dwarka ISBT, Aerocity ISBT, Jewar International Airport, Sarai Rohilla, and Hindon Airport. These sites are identified as high-potential areas for development.
How does the National TOD Policy support these projects?
The National TOD Policy and state-level frameworks in Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh support TOD projects by providing higher floor area ratios and compact urban growth models. These policies aim to make the projects commercially viable and sustainable.
What are the challenges in implementing TOD projects in India?
The main challenges in implementing TOD projects in India include land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the successful implementation of TOD projects.
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