The Union cabinet on Tuesday approved Phase 2A of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project, a 6.032-km corridor connecting Koteshwar Road to Ahmedabad Airport.The project, approved by the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will be built at a total cost of Rs 2,169.04 crore, including interest during construction (IDC).The new corridor will have five stations, including four elevated stations and one underground station.The stations are Ashram Road, Koteshwar Prachin Mandir, Sabarmati River, Sardar Nagar and Airport.With the completion of Phase 2A, the operational metro rail network across Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar will expand to 77.63 km.
Airport link and network expansion
According to the government, the corridor is aimed at improving connectivity between Ahmedabad Airport and other parts of the city while integrating with the existing Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar metro network.The project will connect residential and commercial areas that currently have limited access to rapid public transport.The government also said the corridor could support connectivity requirements if sports infrastructure is developed in the area for events such as the World Police Games 2029 and the Commonwealth Games 2030.
Expected impact on mobility and economy
The government said the metro extension is expected to provide an alternative mode of transport for commuters travelling to the airport and other key locations, potentially reducing pressure on road networks and improving travel times.The project is also expected to improve access to transport hubs, including the airport, railway stations and bus depots, while supporting commercial activity around metro stations.Officials said the expanded metro network could contribute to lower transport-related emissions by encouraging a shift from road-based travel to public transport.
Employment generation
The Ahmedabad Metro Phase 2A project is expected to generate employment for around 2,000 people during peak construction activity.Around 500 personnel are likely to be engaged in the operation and maintenance of the system once it becomes operational.The project forms part of the broader expansion of the Ahmedabad Metro network, which currently connects key areas of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.
