TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT POLICY OF INDIA AND THE BARRIERS IN ITS IMPLEMENTATION

Abstract [English]

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) has emerged as a promising urban planning approach globally, aiming to create sustainable, equitable, and livable cities by promoting compact, mixed-use development around transit nodes. In India, where rapid urbanization and burgeoning population densities pose significant challenges to urban mobility and sustainability, TOD has gained traction as a potential solution. However, the effective implementation of TOD policies in Indian cities faces numerous barriers, including deficiencies in public transportation infrastructure, outdated land use regulations, affordability and accessibility concerns, financing constraints, governance issues, and challenges related to gap in policy between state and local bye laws in its implementation. This research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of these barriers and proposes a policy framework to overcome them, drawing on insights from international best practices and case studies from Indian cities. Through an interdisciplinary approach that integrates urban planning, transportation engineering, economics, and public policy perspectives, this paper offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders to facilitate the successful implementation of TOD in Indian cities. By addressing the identified barriers and leveraging the potential of TOD, India can realize its vision of sustainable, inclusive, and transit-oriented urban development.