On 16th September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the much-anticipated Phase-II of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project. This key infrastructure development is poised to transform urban mobility in Ahmedabad, offering a more efficient and sustainable mode of public transportation. The second phase, covering 28.25 km, links the important city centre with the expanding suburbs, which has witnessed burgeoning residential and commercial growth in recent years.
The Ahmedabad Metro, envisioned to ease the pressure on the city’s congested roads, aligns with the government’s vision to strengthen India’s urban infrastructure. Phase-II, in particular, addresses the need for sustainable mobility solutions as Ahmedabad’s population inches towards 9 million. With the completion of this phase, the city’s metro network extends to 40 km, providing a vital public transit option for an ever-growing population. Data-Driven Progress Phase-II encompasses two lines: the 22.8 km North-South Corridor and the 5.4 km East-West Corridor. The project is expected to serve approximately 2 lakh passengers daily, substantially reducing traffic congestion and emissions. According to official estimates, the metro network will reduce over 60,000 tons of CO2 annually. This addition will bring Ahmedabad in line with other major metro cities in India, such as Delhi and Bengaluru, in terms of high-capacity transit systems.
Comparison with Global Standards While India continues to develop its urban transit networks, the Ahmedabad Metro’s second phase puts it in competition with globally renowned systems in terms of efficiency and convenience. Cities such as London and Singapore have set benchmarks for commuter ease, and India’s metro projects are slowly closing the gap. Compared to Tier 1 cities, Ahmedabad’s metro still has a long way to go in expanding its reach and frequency, but Phase-II is a solid step forward.
A Personalised Experience The inauguration also took on a personal note when PM Modi travelled with students on the newly operational metro, engaging with them during the journey. The interaction signified the government’s commitment to shaping infrastructure that directly benefits citizens, particularly the youth, who represent the future of India’s urban landscape. The students shared their optimism about the ease of commuting the new metro would provide, enabling better access to educational institutions and workplaces. As Phase-II rolls out, Ahmedabad’s metro system promises to usher in an era of enhanced urban mobility, providing residents with an efficient and eco-friendly alternative to daily road travel. This initiative not only reflects the city’s growth trajectory but also India’s broader push towards modern, sustainable infrastructure solutions.
