Advertisement
Meerut has become India's first city to integrate Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) zones into its 2031 Master Plan, promoting high-density, mixed-use communities around the Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro corridors. The Meerut Development Authority (MEDA) has designated 3,273 hectares for TOD, with 2,442 hectares mapped across seven TOD zones and two Special Development Areas. A 300-hectare township will be auctioned to private developers to fund the initiative. In partnership with NCRTC, the project aligns TOD zones with transit hubs to boost connectivity and reduce vehicle dependence. The Uttar Pradesh government is supporting the plan with value capture financing through FSI sales and land monetization. Inspired by global models, Meerut's TOD strategy aims to foster sustainable urban growth, improve livability, and serve as a blueprint for future Indian cities embracing integrated transit and development.
Meerut has emerged as a trailblazer in urban development by becoming the first city in India to incorporate Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) zones into its 2031 Master Plan. This forward-thinking approach aims to create high-density, mixed-use communities centered around public transit systems, specifically the Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro corridors. Advertisement
The Meerut Development Authority (MEDA) has earmarked approximately 3,273 hectares for TOD, with 2,442 hectares designated into seven TOD zones and two Special Development Area (SDA) zones. These zones are strategically located around key transit hubs to maximize accessibility and promote sustainable urban growth.
In a significant move to stimulate private sector participation, MEDA plans to develop a 300-hectare township. This area will be auctioned to private developers, with the proceeds contributing to the funding of the TOD initiative. The township is expected to feature a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
Collaboration with the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has been instrumental in aligning the TOD zones with the Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro corridors. This partnership ensures that the development is integrated with the existing transit infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and reducing dependence on private vehicles.
To further bolster the financial viability of the project, the Uttar Pradesh government has introduced value capture financing mechanisms. These include the sale of additional Floor Space Index (FSI) and land monetization strategies, which are anticipated to generate significant revenue streams to support the TOD development.
The TOD policy, formulated by the Uttar Pradesh government, draws inspiration from successful global models in cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo. These cities have effectively utilized TOD to fund public transportation and enhance urban planning, resulting in improved economic productivity and quality of life for residents.
As the TOD initiative progresses, Meerut is poised to transform into a model of sustainable urban development, balancing growth with environmental considerations and improving the overall quality of life for its residents.
By integrating transit infrastructure with urban growth, the city is setting a precedent for sustainable development. The collaboration between MEDA, NCRTC, and the private sector, coupled with innovative financing mechanisms, underscores the potential of TOD to drive economic growth and improve urban livability. As the project unfolds, it offers valuable insights for other cities aiming to achieve balanced and sustainable urban development.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
