Centre frames new Transit-Oriented Development policy

The centre has formulated a National Transit-Oriented Development Policy and will discuss the same with states and union territories (UTs), at a national workshop on urban development on February 28, 2017, according to an official release.
The centre’s policy seeks to promote Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) – a type of infrastructure development, which enables people to live within walking or cycling distance from transit corridors, which are being undertaken in India at a large scale. TOD is considered as a viable solution to urban challenges like haphazard growth, mobility problems, congestion due to rising private vehicles on roads and pollution, among others.
The Ministry of Urban Development is also incentivising the TOD under the new Metro Policy and Green Urban Mobility Scheme that seeks to create non-motorised transport infrastructure in cities, like footpaths and cycle-tracks.
See also: Transit-oriented development: Making affordable destinations accessible
The ministry’s initiative comes in the context of over 300 kms of metro lines being operational in seven cities, with another 600 kms of metro line projects being under construction in 12 cities and over 500 kms of projects under consideration. Bus rapid transit systems (BRTS) projects in 12 cities are under different stages of construction and eight more cities are set to take up BRT projects. Mass rail transit system of 380 kms length is being taken up in Delhi, the statement said.
The TOD policy is being taken up in Ahmedabad, Delhi, Naya Raipur, Nagpur and Navi Mumbai.
It also aims at inclusive development, by ensuring mixed neighbourhood developments, in the form of a range of housing choices including affordable housing and ensuring spaces for street vendors.
States and UTs will be required to incorporate TOD in their master plans and development plans of cities, besides identifying ‘Influence Zones’ from transit corridors for tapping revenue streams.
By: Housing.com/news