This study investigates the potential of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in Lahore, Pakistan, a developing city in South Asia, to address its pressing transport and environmental challenges. Recognized as the world's most polluted city in 2022, Lahore confronts urgent issues exacerbated by urban sprawl and automobile dependency. Despite the introduction of a mass transit system, the city lacks robust urban planning strategies to effectively utilize these services. Our research seeks to bridge this gap by evaluating the TOD potential at 95 transit stations across four transit lines, using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Spatial Multicriteria Analysis (SMCA). The findings contribute to a sustainable urban planning framework, aiming to assist planners in making informed decisions for the development, funding, and implementation of TOD strategies, as outlined in the Master Plan for Lahore Division (MPLD-2050). This comprehensive approach will act as game changer, rejuvenating Lahore's urban center and promoting sustainable urban growth in emerging economies.
Keywords: Developing City, Game Changer, Sustainable Urban Planning, South Asia Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)