The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and The World Bank collaborated to promote sustainable transportation and transit-oriented development in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). In a meeting chaired by Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, discussions were held between the two parties to plan and implement transit-oriented development (TOD) initiatives in the region.
Transit-oriented development (TOD) is an urban planning approach that encourages the use of public transit, walking and cycling as primary modes of transportation. By concentrating urban activities within a short walking distance from mass rapid transit stations, TOD aims to create vibrant and livable communities with convenient access to a mix of land uses and quality urban spaces.
To facilitate TOD and ensure sustainable urban development, MMRDA has conceptualised TOD policies and regulations for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) which are likely to receive approval soon. Once formulated, these regulations will spur re-development and green field development in MMR. It shall promote pedestrian-friendly built environment, generating revenue for MMRDA to fund large-scale infrastructure projects.
Dr Mukherjee expressed the significance of the collaboration with the World Bank in transforming the MMR, he said *”Leveraging the expertise of the World Bank and considering the extensive network of Metro lines and over 400 stations, this collaboration is poised to play a crucial role in transforming the MMR. The partnership will address key challenges of Mumbai such as rehabilitation, redevelopment and creating affordable, accessible, inclusive housing stock with vibrant community spaces around the stations. These efforts will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the city and contribute to achieving sustainable development goals. MMRDA remains committed to advancing Sustainable Transportation and Transit Oriented Development as vital components of Mumbai’s urban future and a more connected, vibrant and environmentally conscious resilient Mumbai Metropolitan Region.”
The collaboration aims to utilize the influence of various vital transportation infrastructure projects such as the Metro, Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) and the development of growth centers. Acknowledging the potential of transit-oriented development, MMRDA aims to utilize metro stations, monorail stations and high-speed rail stations as catalysts for sustainable urban growth.
The World Bank delegation, led by Ms Jen Jungeun Oh, Practice Manager for Transport, South Asia, included Mr Gerald Olliver, Lead Transport Specialist for South Asia, Mr Amab Bandyopadhyay, Lead Transport Specialist, Dr Sanjeev Kumar Lohia, Senior Advisor (Railway and Urban Mobility), and Mr Laghu Parasher.
