Surat: The diamond city of Surat is moving closer to becoming a modern metro-enabled urban hub as trial runs of the long-awaited Metro rail service have officially begun on an 8.5-km stretch between Dream City and Althan Tenament.
The upcoming Metro network is expected to significantly improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and boost economic activity in one of India’s fastest-growing industrial cities.
Trial Run Begins on Dream City–Althan Route
The Metro trial operations are currently underway on the Dream City–Althan Tenament corridor, with intensive testing of speed, braking systems, and overall technical performance.
According to officials, this phase includes a 500-hour trial run to ensure safety and operational efficiency before public launch.
Several stations along this stretch are in the final stages of construction, and the project is expected to be opened to the public soon after safety approvals.
Two Major Corridors to Connect Key Industrial Zones
Project officials, including Surat Metro Rail Project Director Anand Singh Bisht, confirmed that the network will feature two major corridors:
Diamond Corridor (Corridor I)
- Connects Dream City to Sarthana
- Total length: 21.6 km
- 15 km elevated, 6.5 km underground
- 14 elevated and 6 underground stations
Textile Corridor (Corridor II)
- Connects Bhesan to Saroli
- Total length: 18.7 km
- Fully elevated
- 18 stations
These corridors are designed to serve Surat’s key industrial and commercial hubs, improving daily commute efficiency.
Boost for Diamond and Textile Industries
The Metro is expected to provide direct connectivity to the Surat Diamond Bourse, significantly benefiting the city’s diamond industry.
It will ease daily travel for around 40,000 to 45,000 workers, artisans, and traders who commute from areas like Varachha, Katargam, and Sarthana.
Industry leaders believe the project will reduce traffic pressure and enhance productivity in the diamond and textile sectors.
Industry Leaders Welcome Metro Connectivity
Jayanti Savaliya, Regional Chairman of the Gujarat Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council, said the Metro will greatly reduce traffic congestion and improve commuting efficiency for thousands of workers.
He added that the system has been carefully planned to ensure seamless city-wide connectivity and long-term economic benefits.
Residents Celebrate Long-Awaited Metro Arrival
Local residents have expressed excitement over the upcoming Metro service.
A Surat resident, Raj Patel, said the Metro will make daily commuting faster, safer, and more convenient for public transport users.
Another resident, Roshan Chimna, praised the rapid pace of construction, calling it a matter of pride for the city.
Eco-Friendly and Modern Urban Transport System
The Surat Metro is expected to offer a fast, safe, and environmentally friendly alternative to road transport. It aims to reduce traffic congestion, lower pollution levels, and improve overall urban mobility.
Once fully operational, the system is set to become a major milestone in the urban development of Gujarat.
