New Delhi: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced that the Surat-Bilimora segment will be the first part of India’s Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train corridor to begin operations.
Inspecting the track and station works, Vaishnaw highlighted that significant construction milestones have been achieved and that several advanced technologies are being deployed in Indian railway infrastructure for the first time.
Vaishnaw noted that the high-speed rail turnouts being installed will ensure safety even at speeds exceeding 320 kmph.
The upcoming Surat station, located in Antroli village, has been designed to offer a modern and comfortable travel experience. Plans include a spacious central concourse, skylight-based natural lighting, soothing interiors and extensive passenger amenities such as waiting lounges, nurseries, restrooms and retail outlets.
Lifts, escalators, clear signage, information kiosks and public announcement systems will support accessibility for senior citizens and differently abled passengers.
In partnership with the Surat Municipal Corporation and Surat Urban Development Authority, the station will integrate with multiple transport options under the SMART project. Metro services, BRTS buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and existing rail links will converge to provide seamless connectivity.
Sustainability is central to the design, which incorporates rainwater harvesting, eco-friendly paints and natural ventilation. Drawing inspiration from Surat’s diamond industry, the station’s architecture reflects the facets of a diamond.
The 508-km Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor continues to advance with major viaducts, bridges, tunnels and depots already under construction. Once complete, it will mark a significant leap for India’s rail sector, introducing world-class high-speed travel to the country.
