The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) is poised to implement the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Policy introduced by Uttar Pradesh in 2022. With community concerns addressed, the policy will take effect next month. The TOD policy aims to boost urban living by encouraging high-density, mixed-use developments near mass transit hubs, promoting connectivity, economic growth, and sustainability. Expected to increase GDA revenue by INR 1,500 crore annually, the policy also focuses on reducing traffic congestion and pollution, creating a more livable and accessible environment in Ghaziabad.
The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) is set to implement the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Policy, originally introduced by the Uttar Pradesh government in 2022. Following the resolution of resident objections, the policy is expected to take effect within the next month. GDA Secretary Rakesh Kumar Singh confirmed that the authority has addressed the seven concerns raised by the community, leading to the board's approval for moving forward with the policy.
The TOD policy aims to enhance urban living by promoting development in areas near mass transit systems. Specifically, it encourages higher density construction and mixed-use developments in designated TOD zones. These zones are critical for connecting residential areas with public transportation, making it easier for residents to access jobs, education, and services. In Ghaziabad, the policy zones will include areas within a 1.5-kilometer radius of the Rapid Rail corridors and a 500-metre zone for intra-city transport projects like the metro.
One of the key benefits of the TOD policy is its potential to generate increased revenue for the GDA. By allowing a higher Floor Area Ratio (FAR)-raised from the current 1.5 to a maximum of 5-developers will be able to build larger projects within these zones. This increase in FAR is expected to make land in these areas more valuable, attracting investments and stimulating economic growth. According to estimates from the GDA, the agency could see an annual revenue boost of around INR 1,500 crore due to the changes brought about by the TOD policy.
The focus on integrated development also signifies a commitment to improving civic amenities and infrastructure in Ghaziabad. Town planner Ajay Singh highlighted that the TOD zones will feature mixed land-use development, which encourages commercial and residential spaces to coexist, promoting a vibrant urban environment. The planned township of Harnandipuram is set to benefit from these enhancements, as the GDA aims for a comprehensive upgrade in local facilities.
Moreover, the TOD policy is expected to contribute to sustainable urban development by reducing reliance on personal vehicles. By creating compact, transit-friendly neighbourhoods, it promotes walking and cycling as viable options, helping reduce traffic congestion and pollution. The success of the TOD policy will depend on effective collaboration between government bodies, developers, and the community to create spaces that meet the needs of all residents.
In conclusion, the implementation of the TOD policy in Ghaziabad represents a significant step towards modernising the city's infrastructure and promoting sustainable growth. By increasing the density of urban development around transit hubs, the GDA aims to create a more connected, accessible, and livable environment for its residents. With the policy set to roll out next month, it remains to be seen how these changes will affect Ghaziabad's landscape and the daily lives of its citizens.
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