BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide Pushes Transit-Oriented Development Around Metro Stations To Boost Public Transport Use

Mumbai's Chief Commissioner of Transport and Urban Development, Ashwini Bhide, has championed the cause of developing around Metro stations to promote the use of public transport and enhance city mobility. She addressed this at a conference on urban mobility in Bhubaneswar, sharing insights from Maharashtra's transit-oriented development efforts in Nagpur and Pune.

In Mumbai, a plan has been rolled out to foster high-density development within a 500-meter radius of underground Metro stations. This policy encourages the integration of residential, commercial, and service establishments around these stations, thereby boosting Metro ridership and convenience. A portion of the extra profits from permits for increased construction areas is earmarked for local amenities and transport infrastructure.

Bhide stressed the importance of collaboration among various government bodies and local authorities to ensure efficient transport planning and the strategic growth of urban areas beyond the city limits. She also highlighted the value of learning from global cities like London and Singapore, as well as expert advice, to inform future urban mobility policies.