Avoiding Man-made Disasters using Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)-Strategy: Case of Namma Metro, Bengaluru

Abstract

The use of private cars and vehicles clogs the roads and leads to accidents, congestion and road rage which are man-made disasters. One of the most important urban planning techniques to avoid disaster and to develop livable, productive and sustainable communities is Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), strong transit infrastructure, diverse land uses, higher-density development, walkable urban design, bicycle-friendly amenities, affordable housing and creative parking management which are just a few of the many components that make up TOD. These elements support the transition from car-centric urban design to more equitable and sustainable community development. Zoning and land use regulations, public-private partnerships, transit enhancements, community involvement, design principles, economic development programs, affordable housing policies, green and sustainable design techniques and the creation of TOD-specific zoning districts are some of the tactics used to implement TOD. The goal of these tactics is to develop thriving, economically sound communities that are oriented around effective public transit networks. For successful implementation of TOD projects, a detailed study at the city level, area level and nodal level has to be carried out. In this study, two metro stations at MG Road and Indiranagar, Bengaluru, India are considered and have been studied at baseline level for checking and considering TOD implementation based on the scoring method. Scoring based on primary data, spatial data and a revised master plan of Bengaluru has been carried out. Both the stations have obtained a score of 80% and 88% respectively. The score indicates that both stations are likely to consider and implement the TOD at this nodal level.