The rapid expansion of metro networks in Indian cities has led to a heightened emphasis on facilitating smooth intermodal transfers, minimising travel time and improving commuter convenience. Integrated mobility in India’s metro infrastructure is transforming urban transportation by seamlessly connecting different modes of transit, such as metro rail, buses, regional rail systems and last-mile connectivity options. This will reduce carbon footprints and drive economic growth by enhancing logistics and connectivity.
TOD
In the past few years, transit-oriented development (TOD) has emerged as a popular urban planning concept. TOD is an infrastructure and mobility planning concept that centres around a transit node while integrating land use and various transport networks. It employs the land value capture method with enhanced or additional land value tax, a one-time betterment levy, development charges or impact fees, and transfer of development rights, among others, within its influence zones. It integrates land use and transport planning to develop planned, sustainable urban growth centres with walkable and liveable communes featuring high density, mixed land use.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs notified the National TOD Policy in 2017 to encourage compact mixed-use development, reducing the need for travel and improving access to public transport. With the introduction of the TOD policy, floor area ratio (FAR) norms were liberalised near transit stations and corridors. This was done to enable redevelopment in areas with a stronger transit supply.
The Delhi Development Authority approved the TOD policy, which allows for a higher FAR in developments along or around transit corridors to accommodate more residential, office and recreational spaces within walking or cycling distance of the transit stations. The city’s first TOD hub has been planned in Karkardooma, Delhi. It aims to bring together metro stations, residences, workplaces and recreational spaces. Phase I of the project, which involves roads and utility connections to these buildings, is expected to be completed by September 2026. It will help bring people and jobs closer to the mass transit, resulting in a much-needed integration of land use and transport in the city.
Various initiatives are being taken to increase development along the transit lines and improve employment accessibility and mobility. Notably, Chennai Metro Rail Limited has unveiled an ambitious TOD plan to enhance urban mobility and commercial growth around key metro stations in its Phase II expansion. It plans to develop properties around major stations, including the construction of 12-storey buildings at locations such as Thirumangalam, Koyambedu and Thirumayilai. The dedicated skywalks and walkways will link metro stations to these commercial developments, ensuring commuters have direct and safe access to shopping complexes, office spaces and plazas. In Ghaziabad, TOD zones will be established along the 42 km rapid rail transit system (RRTS) stretch from Sahibabad to Modinagar North, as well as the blue and red lines of the Delhi Metro. The FAR along TOD zones will be increased from the existing 1.5 to 5, encouraging mixed land use development to boost revenue and improve infrastructure.
Last mile connectivity
Metro rail corporations are strengthening last-mile connectivity by deploying electric three-wheeler (e-3W) fleets, bike taxis and feeder buses. Last-mile connectivity via multimodal integration requires institutional integration. This will result in better coordination and collaboration across central, state and municipal bodies. Physical integration of last-mile connectivity measures focuses on bringing stations closer to residential areas and prominent destinations, as well as adding new stations to the existing network. Creating a comfortable walking and cycling environment near metro stations and providing infrastructure for e-mobility and shared modes are other effective physical interventions to ensure structured last-mile connectivity systems.
In this regard, metro rail corporations are taking numerous initiatives to enhance last-mile connectivity. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) launched bike taxis to and from 12 metro stations on its Momentum 2.0 app in November 2024. The eco-friendly e-bikes reduce carbon emissions, offering commuters a green and affordable transport solution. DMRC will also expand its e-3W fleet by adding over 1,100 e-autos by the end of August 2025. It has provided e-auto permits to authorised operators stationed at metro stations in Chhatarpur, Dwarka, Rohini and Northwest Delhi. As of July 2024, of the total 2,299 e-auto permits provided, 1,183 are already registered. These e-autos are operating at around 40 DMRC stations that are equipped with charging points and dedicated parking spaces.
At present, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) operates about 208 feeder bus services from 46 metro stations in Bengaluru. It has also introduced the real-time tracking of existing feeder buses. However, these feeder bus services are not regular, resulting in lower ridership. To resolve this issue, BMTC has collaborated with the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation to introduce new feeder buses at 15-20 metro stations. The feeder buses will provide services during peak morning and evening hours, serving areas within an 8-10 km radius of metro stations at a flat fare.
Hyderabad Metro has also launched an eco-friendly initiative connecting metro stations to key destinations with pollution-free electric vehicles. This service reduces reliance on personal vehicles, auto-rickshaws and cabs, enabling commuters to reach their destinations seamlessly. In the initial phase, 100 e-scooters will operate from key metro stations such as Parade Ground and Secunderabad East.
Pune Metro has partnered with TS Switch E-Ride Private Limited to offer rental e-bikes. The bikes are designed to meet commuter needs, with a maximum speed of 25 km per hour and a battery range of up to 80 km on a single charge. Initially, the service will be available at 10 metro stations, including Sant Tukaram Nagar, Nashik Phata, Dapodi, Shivajinagar, Mandai, Swargate, Ruby Hall Clinic, Anand Nagar and Vanaz.
Multi-modal connectivity
The provision of multi-modal connectivity is crucial for developing efficient, easy-to-access mobility areas, especially in densely populated urban agglomeration regions. Hyderabad Metro is at the forefront of developing multi-modal connectivity, providing an effective link through multi-modal transport services (MMTS) at stations such as Bharatnagar, Lakdikapul, Begumpet, Secunderabad, Nampally, Khairatabad and Malakpe. Thus, commuters can easily switch between these MMTS stations and the nearby metro stations.
In an effort to revamp the country’s transportation infrastructure, various multi-modal transport projects are being planned, which are tailored to meet the specific needs of its diverse cities and citizens. Accessibility and mobility are at the core of multi-modal transport systems. Multi-modal transport hubs (MMTHs) will serve as junctions that enhance transportation efficiency, save time and improve the speed of movement by facilitating smooth exchange between railways, metros, buses, autos, airplanes and other modes of transportation. For instance, Delhi International Airport is set to develop India’s first MMTH. As per the proposed plan, the hub will be well-connected to an interstate bus terminus (ISBT), the upcoming Delhi Metro Phase IV, a passenger transport centre and an RRTS station. Another MMTH project at Boraki in Greater Noida will include a state-of-the-art railway terminus complemented by an ISBT and a mass rapid transit system station, alongside commercial activities. The project will be spread across 358 acres. It will provide connectivity via Noida Metro Rail, with the Aqua Line being extended up to Depot Station.
The way ahead
In the future, TOD must be considered and incorporated into the cities’ master plans. To increase the quality of access to metro stations, last-mile connectivity must continue to be available and reasonably priced. The timetables of various forms of transportation must be harmonised to ensure effective operational integration. Improving transit connectivity will also benefit the commercial real estate market. Moving ahead, integrated connectivity will support compact urban growth, helping improve socio-economic productivity as well as harness the economic benefits of urbanisation.
