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The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) will oversee the station upgrades and their immediate surroundings.
These upgraded stations will integrate metro, bus, and taxi services, allowing travelers to switch transport modes easily. (PTI)
The Indian Railways is making big plans for the upcoming bullet train route between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
As part of the SMART (Station Area Development) initiative, four stations have been chosen for targeted development, according to a report by The Indian Express.
According to India.com, the selected stations are Virar and Thane in Maharashtra, as well as Sabarmati and Surat in Gujarat. These stations will transform into vibrant hubs of activity, enhancing connectivity and providing modern amenities for travelers and local communities.
The revamped stations will integrate metro, bus, and taxi services, making it easier for commuters to switch between different modes of transport. This integration aims to cut down travel time, reduce congestion, and lower emissions.
Key Features of the SMART Development:
Enhanced Connectivity: Modern amenities and streamlined access will improve the travel experience for passengers and nearby communities.
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): By combining offices, hotels, schools, and healthcare within walking distance, these stations aim to create self-sustaining urban centers, fueling local business growth, job creation, and a stronger regional economy.
Well-Planned Infrastructure: NHSRCL will design the stations to include pickup zones, parking, plazas, and connections to existing roadways.
Staged Development Timeline:
- First 10 Years (Area 2): Focus will be on road connectivity and infrastructure around the stations.
- 10-20 Years (Area 3): The state government, along with urban planning bodies, will lead expansion and development around these transit hubs.
In the next decade, the SMART initiative promises to reshape these bullet train stations into efficient and lively hubs, setting the stage for a new era in Indian rail travel.
