AHMEDABAD: Ahmedabad’s proposed Metro Phase 3 has moved closer to implementation after receiving Public Investment Board clearance, advancing plans for a wider network connecting southwest Ahmedabad with emerging development zones towards Dholera. The proposal is significant not only for transport capacity but also for how future housing, employment and commercial growth is distributed across the metropolitan region.
The proposed expansion is structured around multiple corridors rather than a single extension. One key section would connect Thaltej Gam towards Badrabad through Godhavi, creating a stronger public-transport spine along areas experiencing rapid urbanisation. The Badrabad endpoint could eventually provide a transit gateway towards the Dholera Special Investment Region and its upcoming airport. The planning comes as Ahmedabad and Dholera are being connected through several major transport investments. The Union Cabinet has already approved a ₹20,667 crore Ahmedabad–Sarkhej–Dholera semi-high-speed railway project, which is intended to serve the Dholera region and upcoming airport.
For city residents, however, the more immediate significance of Ahmedabad Metro Phase 3 lies in its proposed coverage within the existing urban area. The plan includes a circular corridor around Ahmedabad, linking locations such as Naranpura, Shivranjani, Shyamal, Jivraj Park, APMC, Isanpur, Amraiwadi and Rakhial. Such a network could reduce the need for passengers to travel through central areas when making cross-city journeys. The project also reflects an attempt to bring mass transit closer to emerging urban destinations. The proposed Godhavi connection would serve the southwest growth belt and the South West Ahmedabad Sports Arena. Better public transport access to large institutional or recreational destinations can reduce dependence on private vehicles, provided last-mile links, walking routes and safe interchange facilities are developed alongside the rail infrastructure.
Preparatory activity is already visible on the ground. GMRC has invited agencies for geotechnical investigations and topographical surveys for Phase 3 corridors. Official tender documents cover the Godhavi–Badrabad section, the Thaltej Gam–Canal Road section and a proposed circular corridor involving APMC and Vadaj. The proposed network is planned with elevated infrastructure and multiple interchange opportunities. Its wider value will ultimately depend on more than kilometres of track: affordable access, integration with buses, pedestrian infrastructure, universal accessibility and careful management of construction impacts will determine whether new transit capacity translates into inclusive urban mobility. For Ahmedabad Metro Phase 3, the next major milestone remains the required central approval before full-scale construction can proceed. Until then, detailed surveys and design work will shape how effectively the proposed corridors respond to Ahmedabad’s changing urban geography.
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