Unlocking 106 Million Sq Ft of Transit-Oriented Development Potential in India's Top Cities
A recent report highlights the significant real estate development potential in India’s major cities through transit-oriented development (TOD). Delhi NCR leads with 32 million sq ft, followed by Mumbai at 20 million sq ft and Chennai at 13 million sq ft.
Transitoriented DevelopmentReal EstateUrban PlanningSustainabilityIndian CitiesReal Estate MumbaiSep 03, 2025
The national capital region of Delhi had the highest potential for transit-oriented development (TOD) opportunities at 32 million square feet due to its expanding metro systems, ISBTs, and city railway stations. This is followed by Mumbai with a real estate potential of 20 million square feet and Chennai at 13 million square feet.
Anshuman Magazine, chairman & CEO - India, South-East Asia, Middle East & Africa, CBRE, said, “TOD paves the way for vibrant, mixed-use communities that are not only commercially viable but also sustainable and livable. As metro networks and transport hubs continue to expand across urban India, TOD will play a pivotal role in shaping inclusive, accessible, and future-ready cities. To fully realize this potential, however, challenges around land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations need to be systematically addressed.”
TOD includes both commercial and residential projects, and dedicated areas for walking, cycling, along with spots for multi-modal transport integration. “TOD corridors are also accelerating the rise of mixed-use ecosystems, integrating residential, office, retail, and leisure spaces, reducing commute times and supporting compact, connected growth,” the report said.
The report highlighted that certain planned projects in Delhi NCR, such as Dwarka ISBT, Aerocity ISBT, and Jewar International Airport, and existing hubs such as Sarai Rohilla and Hindon Airport offer high potential for real estate development. In Mumbai, Bandra, Dadar, Mumbai CST, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport have high potential for real estate development. Moreover, hubs such as Chennai Airport, Maduravoyal Expressway, and Chennai Peripheral Ring Road can unlock potential transit-oriented real estate.
This development potential is crucial for urban planning and sustainability. By integrating real estate with transit points, cities can reduce traffic congestion, promote public transportation, and enhance the quality of life for residents. The successful implementation of TOD projects will require collaboration between government agencies, private developers, and local communities to address the challenges and maximize the benefits.
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 includes commercial and residential projects, and dedicated areas for walking, cycling, and multi-modal transport integration.
Which city has the highest potential for TOD in India?
Delhi NCR has the highest potential for transit-oriented development (TOD) with 32 million square feet of real estate development potential.
What are the benefits of TOD?
The benefits of TOD include reducing traffic congestion, promoting public transportation, enhancing the quality of life for residents, and supporting compact, connected growth in urban areas.
What challenges need to be addressed for successful TOD implementation?
Challenges for successful TOD implementation include land acquisition, financing, skill availability, and outdated land-use regulations. Collaboration between government agencies, private developers, and local communities is essential to address these challenges.
Which cities besides Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai have significant TOD potential?
Other cities with significant TOD potential include Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Ahmedabad, as they also have expanding transit systems and planned projects that can support TOD.
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