Travel time to various destinations in South Gujarat is set to decrease as the Gujarat government greenlights road projects worth approximately Rs 1,185 crore under the Surat Economic Region (SER) Scheme (Phase 1). The initiative involves widening and strengthening roads in Surat, Navsari, Tapi, Valsad, and Dang districts, with some sections being transformed into four- and six-lane corridors.
Bypass roads are also on the agenda for specific urban areas to alleviate congestion and enhance traffic flow. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel highlighted that the enhanced infrastructure will facilitate faster access to remote tourist spots, especially for travelers coming from major cities like Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat.
The road improvements aim to enhance connectivity to various tourism circuits, including the Ahmedabad–Dandi Heritage Route, coastal destinations, eco-tourism sites, and religious places in South Gujarat. Notable projects include widening the Mora–Suvali Beach road in Surat to four lanes, anticipating increased traffic due to the rising popularity of Suvali Beach and its annual beach festival.
The Ahmedabad–Dandi Heritage Route, linked to Mahatma Gandhi’s Salt March, will witness widening from three meters to seven meters along specific stretches. This development is expected to streamline traffic flow while preserving access to historically significant sites. Additionally, in Valsad district, a causeway will be built on the coastal highway between Umarsadi and the Kolak River, connecting Valsad with Daman and passing through picturesque coastal areas and cultural landmarks like Udvada.
Further, the existing road network in Dang district, known for its forested landscape and tribal communities, will undergo enhancements. The Waghai-Ahwa state highway will be expanded to a four-lane road, improving accessibility to attractions such as Shabari Dham, Pampa Sarovar, and Saputara hill station, along with linking to the Statue of Unity tourism circuit. Moreover, the Chikhli–Khergam–Dharampur road will be widened to four lanes, enhancing access to hill destinations like Wilson Hills, especially during the monsoon season when visitor numbers surge.
The government anticipates that these infrastructure upgrades will bolster tourism activities and enhance connectivity for local residents. Notably, India saw a 14.85% rise in foreign tourist arrivals in 2024, with Gujarat ranking third nationally in attracting international visitors.
