Gandhinagar: The Gujarat government on Wednesday announced an order for 34 state-of-the-art metro train sets, including 10 sets for Ahmedabad Metro Phase-II and 24 sets for Surat Metro, to expand and modernize urban transport across the state. These trains are being manufactured at Titagarh’s facility in Kolkata.
Ahmedabad Metro Phase-II Expansion
Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project’s Phase-I and Phase-II are already operational. Under Phase-II, a 68.2 km metro network connecting Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar currently operates 32 train sets.
The addition of 10 new train sets will increase frequency, reduce waiting time, and provide passengers with a more comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Surat Metro Development
Construction of the 40.3 km Surat Metro network is underway. An order has been placed for 24 train sets to service this network. Once operational, the metro will enhance connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and support Surat’s growing urban population.
Gujarat Metro Network to Expand to 190 km
Gujarat’s metro rail network currently spans 108 km and is projected to reach 190 km in the coming years. The expansion includes the 6.04 km Ahmedabad airport line, with proposals under consideration to extend metro services to Rajkot and Vadodara.
The government aims to ensure that modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly urban transport benefits citizens across the state.
Advanced Features in Gujarat’s Metro Trains
The new metro trains will feature driverless technology, ensuring punctuality, safety, and energy efficiency. Key innovations include:
- Real-time monitoring and automated braking systems
- Optimized speed profiles and intelligent fault diagnostics
- Passenger safety features including CCTV surveillance, fire detection systems, fail-safe door operations, and obstacle detection
These features are designed to establish Gujarat’s metro trains as a model of smart, sustainable urban transport.
UK-India Collaboration Ahead of 2030 Commonwealth Games
In preparation for the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, the British Deputy High Commission, in collaboration with the Gujarat government, hosted a roundtable on sports infrastructure, innovation, and event delivery.
Participants included representatives from UK consulting and construction firms such as AECOM, Buro Happold, Currie & Brown, Mott MacDonald, Mace, BDP, and Scottish Development International. Indian stakeholders included Gujarat Sports Infrastructure Development Board, Sports Authority of Gujarat, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, Vijayi Bharat Foundation, Sanskardham, and PSP Projects Pvt Ltd.
The discussions emphasized creating infrastructure that remains useful post-2030 and leveraging UK expertise in large-scale public and sporting events to support Ahmedabad’s preparations.
British Deputy High Commissioner Stephen Hickling highlighted the importance of international collaboration and knowledge-sharing to achieve Gujarat’s ambitious infrastructure and event goals.
Read also: Gujarat to Provide Single-Shift Continuous Electricity for Farmers to Boost Irrigation Efficiency
