Trial runs have commenced on a crucial section of the Surat Metro, moving the city closer to launching a mass rapid transit system aimed at reducing congestion and enhancing access to major commercial hubs, including the Surat Diamond Bourse.
The Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation Limited has started testing on an 8.5-kilometre route between Dream City and Althan Tenement. This trial phase, spanning 500 hours, is evaluating the train’s speed, braking mechanisms, and other technical aspects in preparation for operational approval.
Officials anticipate that the metro service will offer a quicker, safer, and more environmentally friendly transportation option for commuters. Moreover, the metro is poised to provide direct connectivity to the Surat Diamond Bourse, benefiting around 40,000 to 45,000 artisans and traders who commute daily from various areas such as Varachha, Katargam, and Sarthana.
Jayanti Savaliya, Regional Chairman of the Gujarat Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council in Surat, expressed optimism about the project’s ability to alleviate traffic issues. Savaliya stated, “The traffic problem will be reduced to a large extent. With the metro starting up to Diamond Bourse, 45,000 people will be able to commute to Diamond Bourse. The metro connecting the entire city has been designed very well.”
Residents are looking forward to the positive impact on daily travel. Raj Patel, a local resident, mentioned, “With the arrival of the metro in Surat, people who depend on public transport from morning to evening will get ease. People will be able to reach their destinations on time. As a resident of Surat, I feel happy that after years of waiting, we are getting a metro, so every resident of Surat is delighted.”
The Surat Metro Rail Project consists of two corridors, totaling 40.35 kilometers and 38 stations. Corridor-1, known as the Diamond Corridor, connects Sarthana to Dream City over 21.6 kilometers, including elevated and underground tracks with multiple stations. Corridor-2, the Textile Corridor, links Bhesan to Saroli over 18.7 kilometers with all elevated tracks and 18 stations. Two depots are under construction at Dream City and Bhesan.
Anand Singh Bist, Project Director of the Surat Metro Rail Project, explained, “Corridor-1, which is also called the ‘Diamond Corridor,’ connects Dream City to Sarthana… Corridor-2, which is also called the ‘Textile Corridor,’ connects Bhesan to Saroli.” The completion of safety checks and testing is awaited before the metro service opens to the public.
