High Speed Railway and its Urban Growth Implications: Public Perception about Factors Inducing Urban Development

High Speed Railway (HSR) significantly reduces inter-city travel times; hence, it has large-scale implications on urban growth. Many developing countries, like India, are looking forward to constructing HSR. However, the urban growth impact of HSR in these countries will differ from the developed world, requiring newer urban planning methods. Considering public opinion is pertinent for participatory planning. The study analyses factors of an HSR city's urban growth as perceived by ordinary citizens. The rank analysis of the data collected from a questionnaire survey shows that Indians are more concerned about basic amenities than facilities for leisure purposes. Connectivity to HSR stations by metro and proximity to transit stations were the most critical factors for residential growth. Contrary to planners’ view, the multi-functional high-rise commercial development of an HSR station building was perceived as the least important factor for urban growth. Significant differences in the perception among different socio-economic groups were also observed. This study reveals the similarities between the public perception in a developing country and the empirical evidences from developed countries. Also, it highlights the importance of understanding public perception about the effects of transit on urban development.