The Ahmedabad Metro services were disrupted for nearly seven hours on May 21, 2025, following the theft of approximately 500 metres of copper power supply cables between Shahpur and Old High Court stations.
The stolen cables, valued at an estimated ₹9 lakh, are crucial for the operation of the metro trains. The Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC) has initiated measures to bolster security and prevent such incidents in the future. The theft was discovered early on May 21 when a power outage was reported on the Shahpur–Old High Court Metro stretch. The first train from Vastral to Thaltej Gam experienced a power failure after passing Shahpur station. Upon inspection, it was found that 20 copper cables, each 25 metres in length, had been stolen. The cables, priced at ₹1,800 per metre, amounted to a loss of approximately ₹9 lakh. A formal complaint was lodged at Shahpur Police Station, and an investigation is underway to identify the culprits.
In response to the incident, GMRC is considering the installation of CCTV cameras and the deployment of security guards at vulnerable points along the metro routes. Particularly, the areas where the metro transitions from underground to overground are being identified as high-risk zones. While the Apparel Park area benefits from government-owned, round-the-clock security, the Shahpur area remains more exposed. As an immediate measure, GMRC plans to position a security guard at the site until permanent surveillance solutions are implemented. The theft has raised concerns about the security of critical infrastructure and the potential for similar incidents in the future. The stolen cables are believed to have been taken by individuals with technical knowledge, as they were removed in small intervals, indicating a planned operation.
The disruption affected many commuters, including students and office-goers, who were forced to find alternative transportation. Commuters criticized GMRC for delayed public announcements and continued ticket sales to affected stations during the suspension. Similar incidents have been reported in other metro systems across India. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has implemented measures such as covering cables with cement, using anti-theft clamps, and employing drones for surveillance to combat cable theft. Since June 2024, DMRC has reported 89 cases of cable theft, leading to service disruptions. The corporation is exploring the use of drones and CCTV cameras in areas prone to theft.
As Ahmedabad Metro continues to expand, ensuring the security of its infrastructure becomes paramount. The proposed security enhancements aim to safeguard critical components and maintain the trust of commuters. GMRC’s proactive approach in addressing the issue reflects a commit
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