India’s Transit Hubs Hold 106 Million Sq. Ft. of Realty Growth Potential
Introduction :
India’s real estate sector is on the brink of a major transformation — thanks to transit-oriented development (TOD). According to a recent report by CBRE, the country has the potential to develop over 106 million square feet of real estate around major transit nodes such as metro stations, inter-state bus terminals (ISBTs), and city railway stations across the top eight metros.
This new wave of development is expected to not only boost urban infrastructure but also create sustainable, compact, and future-ready communities.
Delhi-NCR Leads the Way
Among all regions, Delhi-NCR tops the list with nearly 32 million sq. ft. of potential real estate space within transit hubs. The massive expansion of the Delhi Metro, alongside projects like Dwarka ISBT, Aerocity ISBT, and Jewar International Airport, is driving this growth.
Existing hubs such as Sarai Rohilla and Hindon Airport also show strong potential for TOD-based projects that integrate residential, commercial, and retail ecosystems seamlessly with transport infrastructure.
Other Metro Cities Join the Momentum
Following Delhi-NCR, Mumbai ranks second with 20 million sq. ft. of potential, led by key railway and metro stations like Bandra, Dadar, CST, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Pune also demonstrate high development capacity, driven by expanding metro systems and urban transit projects.
For instance, Chennai’s focus around the Peripheral Ring Road and Maduravoyal Expressway, and Hyderabad’s Metro Phase-II expansion, are expected to unlock new TOD zones that encourage compact, accessible city growth.
What is Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)?
• Residential spaces
• Commercial offices
• Retail and leisure hubs
• Pedestrian-friendly zones
This integrated design helps reduce commute times, encourages sustainable mobility, and enhances the overall quality of life in urban areas.
A Sustainable Urban Future
Transit-oriented developments are becoming a game-changer for India’s real estate. They not only promote efficient land use but also align with India’s smart city vision by reducing traffic congestion, improving connectivity, and lowering carbon emissions.
With expanding metro and transport infrastructure in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, the next decade could see a massive surge in TOD-led real estate—driving both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
“TOD is fast emerging as a powerful catalyst for India’s urban growth story,” the report concludes.