Urban transformation through transit: the case of Delhi metro

Abstract

Urbanization in developing countries is rapidly increasing, with populations projected to reach 5.5 billion by 2050. This growth presents challenges, such as land resource pressure, environmental degradation, unsustainable transportation, and disorderly urban land development. Transit-oriented development (TOD) and sustainable urban transit systems such as the Delhi Metro are crucial for addressing urban design, economic competitiveness, and quality of life by improving accessibility and reducing private vehicle reliance. This study investigated changes in land use and land cover (LULC) in buffer zones around the Delhi Metro lines using satellite imagery from 1997, 2006, 2011, and 2019. The findings revealed significant shifts from open land and vegetation to built-up areas, driven by increased real estate activity and property values near metro stations. This study highlights the importance of integrating transportation infrastructure with urban planning for sustainable development, utilizing green infrastructure to mitigate environmental impacts, and implementing water-sensitive urban designs and TOD strategies to improve resilience.