Delhi, the Capitol of TOD

Transit‐oriented development is key for low‐carbon and compact development with mixed land uses. TOD minimizes travel time for citizens, promotes nearby public transport, reduces congestion, and facilitates safer and more vibrant neighborhoods full of public amenities.

To address Delhi’s growing pollution and congestion problems as well as shortage of housing stock for the poor and middle class, Delhi’s Ministry of Urban Development passed legislation on July 14, 2015 establishing TOD as a formal policy. This policy is the first formal policy in the country that supports and encourages TOD.

The policy has captured the essential elements of mixed-use development, non‐motorized transport and pedestrian priority, and encourages a walk‐to‐work culture. To inaugurate the policy, the city has launched a greenfield pilot project called “The East Delhi hub” in the area of Karkardooma. Karkardooma will be first official transit-oriented development in the country and will include 4,800 houses, 80,000 square meters (861,000 square feet) of retail space, a 5‐acre park and a circular skywalk.

Our team signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Delhi Development Agency to review projects, prepare Terms of Reference for projects, assist in pilot projects and represent in all core groups, working groups and governing body meetings. We provided inputs to inform key elements of the policy through our experience in other cities—from parking impact assessments to off‐street parking regulations. We partnered with the media to promote the policy and raise awareness about its benefits.