Gujarat Government Launches Planning for Major Regional Rapid Transit System Network
In a significant move to enhance urban transport infrastructure, the Gujarat government has commenced comprehensive planning for a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) aimed at linking Ahmedabad with its rapidly expanding satellite areas. Similar high-speed transit networks are being conceptualized for Surat, Rajkot, and Vadodara as the state prepares for the next phase of urban development and expansion.
Proposed RRTS Corridors and Key Connections
Officials have outlined the preliminary connections for each major city under the proposed RRTS network:
- Ahmedabad: Likely to be connected to Sanand, Kalol, Mehsana, and Dehgam, with Ahmedabad designated as a high-priority urban region for feasibility assessments.
- Surat: Expected links include Navsari, Bardoli, and Valsad.
- Vadodara: Anticipated connections with Anand, Nadiad, and Dabhoi.
- Rajkot: Network is expected to incorporate Wankaner and Gondal.
These towns, located within 40-60 kilometers of their parent cities, have strong economic linkages and demonstrate high growth potential. "Sanand, Kalol, Mehsana, and Dehgam have already emerged as key nodes in the Ahmedabad urban region. With high-quality connectivity, they can evolve into major urban centers," stated a government official.
Budget Allocation and Technical Studies
The state government has allocated Rs 10 crore in the 2026-27 budget specifically for technical studies and detailed planning of the RRTS corridors. To guide the project, Gujarat has engaged the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), which is currently implementing three RRTS corridors around Delhi, connecting the national capital with Meerut, Sonipat, and Alwar.
NCRTC has been tasked with preparing the master plan for Gujarat's RRTS network. Concurrently, Cept University is developing an alternative analysis report to identify the most viable alignment and technology options for the system.
Urbanization Context and Satellite Town Development
Gujarat is experiencing rapid urbanization, with 17 municipal corporations and 152 municipalities. Approximately 48% of the state's population now resides in urban areas, underscoring the urgent need for advanced transport solutions.
This initiative aligns with earlier state government announcements regarding the development of five satellite towns around major cities. In the 2025–26 budget, Rs 50 crore was allocated for this purpose. On October 18, 2025, the urban development and urban housing department officially notified Kalol, Sanand, Savli, Bardoli, and Hirasar as satellite towns to be developed as extensions of larger urban centers.
Project Timeline and Future Steps
According to government sources, once the master plan is finalized, the state will proceed with the next round of approvals and preparatory work. "The aim is to begin physical work on connecting Ahmedabad's surrounding towns through the RRTS before the 2030 Commonwealth Games," revealed a top government source.
The RRTS project represents a strategic effort to bolster Gujarat's urban infrastructure, support economic growth, and improve connectivity between major cities and their burgeoning satellite regions, positioning the state for sustainable urban expansion in the coming decades.
