New Delhi: Properties located near metro or RRTS stations, including those in unauthorised colonies, can now be developed with greater height and density under the revised transit-oriented development (TOD) norms approved by Delhi Development Authority (DDA).The authority has modified the TOD provisions under the Master Plan for Delhi (MPD) 2021 to expand eligibility and encourage broader participation. Areas under land pooling, low-density residential zones and unauthorised colonies — previously excluded — are now covered, provided the plot size is 2,000 sqm or more and within a 500-metre corridor of a metro station.Currently, residential usage depends on the existing land classification of a plot. Under the revised rules, any qualifying plot will be designated a ‘TOD plot’, simplifying land-use conversion. The changes aim to promote compact, mixed-use and high-density development around public transport hubs, said officials.“The revised regulations lower the minimum plot requirement from 10,000 sqm to 2,000 sqm for properties within 500 metres of a metro station and can be used for mixed development. Under the updated framework, a maximum floor area ratio (FAR) of up to 500 will be permitted for plots within a 500-metre corridor on either side of metro lines and within a 500-metre radius of regional and interstate transit stations, including RRTS, high-speed rail and railway stations. Earlier, FAR of only 300 was permissible,” said an official.To enhance the supply of affordable housing, a higher percentage of FAR has been earmarked for residential use. “At least 65% of the total buildable space (or FAR) on a TOD plot must be used for building residential units under 100 sqm, including guest houses or studio apartments. At least 10% of FAR must be used for shops, small businesses and community facilities. The remaining 25% can be used for larger homes (over 100 sqm), offices, guest houses or studio apartments,” state the new norms.To promote walkability and reduce dependence on private vehicles, the proposal allows exclusive underground connectivity between TOD developments and metro stations, subject to approval from a designated committee and metro security agencies.Delhi’s TOD policy was first approved in July 2015 as part of MPD 2021 and later revised in 2019 and 2021. It seeks to create walkable neighbourhoods around transit hubs, encourage vertical growth through higher FAR, and reduce traffic congestion and pollution.In Nov 2025, Union housing and urban affairs minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced a revamped TOD framework for Delhi to ease congestion, promote high-rise development and strengthen last-mile connectivity. DDA issued a public notice outlining draft modifications to its TOD policy, widening its scope to facilitate more flexible and extensive planned housing development. The proposals, reviewed by a committee chaired by the DDA vice-chairman, were approved last week during a meeting led by LG V K Saxena.
