Boost to Connectivity and Economic Growth
The newly approved corridor is set to improve travel between Ahmedabad and GIFT City, a rapidly emerging financial and commercial hub. Major multinational companies, educational institutions, and commercial centres located along the route are expected to benefit directly from improved metro access.
Daily commuters travelling for business, employment, and education will gain faster and more reliable transit options. The extension is designed to enhance overall network integration, reducing travel time and easing congestion on existing routes.
Officials believe that seamless connectivity to GIFT City will further strengthen its position as a global financial services centre, supporting economic growth in the region.
Employment Generation and Implementation
The metro extension is also expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Around 1,000 jobs will be created during the construction phase, while approximately 250 people will be employed in operations and maintenance after completion.
Beyond direct employment, the project is anticipated to create indirect job opportunities across allied sectors such as construction materials, logistics, and services.
The project will be implemented by Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation Limited (GMRC), a 50:50 joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Gujarat. GMRC has been instrumental in expanding metro infrastructure in the state over the past few years.
Ahmedabad Metro: Current Status
The Gujarat Metro network has seen rapid expansion in recent years. The 68.28-kilometre Ahmedabad Metro Phase-I, covering the North-South corridor from APMC to Motera Stadium and the East-West corridor from Thaltej Gam to Vastral Gam, became operational in September 2022.
Phase-II, which connects Motera Stadium to Mahatma Mandir and GNLU to GIFT City, was operationalised in January 2026. Together, the two phases span 53 stations and currently record an average daily ridership of approximately 1.6 lakh passengers.
The newly approved extension will integrate seamlessly with the existing network, further improving accessibility and passenger convenience.
Urban Mobility Vision
The Cabinet’s approval reflects the Centre’s continued focus on strengthening urban mobility infrastructure across India. Metro rail projects are increasingly viewed as sustainable transport solutions that reduce carbon emissions and support smart city development.
By expanding the Ahmedabad-GIFT City metro corridor, the government aims to promote efficient public transport, reduce dependence on private vehicles, and support long-term urban planning goals.
The GIFT City–Shahpur extension is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of urban growth in Gujarat, aligning infrastructure expansion with economic and environmental priorities.
