A Paradigm Shift required in Urban Planning to achieve TOD: Critical Appraisal of Delhi’s Master Plan 2041

Abstract

Although there many similar definitions of Transit-oriented Development (TOD) by different authors worldwide. But, in Indian context, TOD aims to create a moderate to high density development with mixed land-uses within maximum walking distance of 800 meters from a transit station. Delhi will be surpassing Tokyo as world’s largest city with about 37.4 million population in 2018 by increasing its urban agglomeration population to about 38.9 million till 2030. Thereby, it becomes necessary to identify a set of criteria and indicators related with TOD that can evaluate the TOD policy enlisted in the recent Delhi’s Master Plan prepared for the year 2041. The study has generated 12 indicators as Population/commercial densities, Mixedness of land uses, Green Public spaces, walkable/cyclable paths, Intersection densities, Station transit ridership, Basic Amenities at the station and Safety and security of the commuters at the station, access to job opportunities within walkable distance from train station and Parking supply of four wheelers/cycles at the station to be evaluated in the MPD 2041. The data for these indicators is readily available in the secondary sources particularly Master Plan either as quantified expression or qualitative in nature. The need is felt in the MPD 2041 to prepare and develop TOD typologies for successful TOD implementation as highlighted extensively in the literature review. Assigning TOD typology will take into account both, built-environment and transport characteristics.