Investigating the Implications of Transit-Oriented Land Use Development for a Potential Node in an Urban Metro for Sustainability

Abstract

Urbanization is intrinsically connected to economic progress. India's rapid economic and population growth has increased its carbon footprint and traffic congestion. A long-term strategy is essential to preserve the balance and alleviate the issues arising from the expansion. Integrating land use and transportation planning has been acknowledged as a means to achieve sustainable urban development worldwide. Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is one such strategy. TOD is a planning and design strategy for promoting urban development by clustering jobs, housing, services, and amenities around public transport stations. This strategy can help achieve sustainable communities and improve the quality of life. This research paper assessed the land use characteristics of an urban fringe area in Trivandrum city and completed a land suitability analysis using GIS software tools. A potential node for re-development was identified by looking at various traffic, demographic, and land use parameters. Detailed TOD recommendations for the area surrounding the transit node were proposed based on its development potential.