Japan’s urban policy and planning are rooted in innovation, attention to detail and efficient implementation. Kadambari Shah and Harshita Agarwal, Senior Associates, IDFC Institute, look at how urbanisation in Japan maximises space, aids mobility by integrating public transport systems and emphasises on enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Excerpts below:

“Evidently, administering and planning dense areas better is more vital than attempting to contain urban growth. Densification, especially in populous Indian and Chinese cities, is often blamed for causing congestion and pollution. One way to overcome these issues is through efficient mass transit.

Public transport in Tokyo is an intricate yet easily navigable network of public and private lines connecting various parts of the city, enabling 51% of the trips to be made by public transit. Interoperability between different routes and modes of transport is why the complex system is convenient to use.”

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Note: This work was done by the author/s when they were a part of the IDFC Institute and is republished here with permission.