In a significant move to streamline urban commuting, the Gujarat government has announced plans to develop a comprehensive, integrated smart mobility system. This initiative aims to eliminate the need for citizens to juggle multiple applications for different modes of transport.
One App to Rule All Commutes
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, speaking at an event in Ahmedabad on Friday, revealed that the state is working on a unified platform. This system will allow users to plan and book journeys across various transport modes within a city and to other cities using a single application. The current fragmented landscape, where different departments and cities operate separate apps, will be consolidated into one seamless experience.
Sanghavi emphasized that this "single-click" solution is essential for Ahmedabad's rapid growth and will ensure last-mile connectivity. He stated that the integrated app will significantly boost public transport usage by making it infinitely more accessible and convenient for the average commuter.
Roadmap for Statewide Implementation
The ambitious project will begin with a pilot launch in the holy town of Somnath. Following this test phase, the government expects to roll out the integrated smart mobility system across the entire state of Gujarat within the next two years.
Sanghavi expressed strong confidence in Ahmedabad's future infrastructure, predicting that within four years, the city will boast the best public mobility system in the country. He linked this development to major upcoming international events, including the Commonwealth Games and the World Police and Fire Games, which are expected to create new opportunities and demand.
Broader Vision for Urban Development
The announcement was made during the GIHED Property Olympiad's Youthcon event, where the Deputy CM also outlined other civic improvements. He mentioned plans to transform SG Road, from Sarkhej to Akshardham in Gandhinagar, into a dust-free corridor adorned with plantations and dedicated food zones.
Furthermore, the government is working on implementing adaptive traffic signals that can automatically adjust timing based on real-time traffic flow, aiming to reduce congestion.
The vision for a globally recognized Ahmedabad was echoed by other leaders at the event. Jaxay Shah, Chairman of the Quality Council of India, highlighted that the Commonwealth Games 2030 and a potential bid for the Olympics 2036 will put the city on the world map as a hub for sports and training.
Adding to the sustainability focus, Shekhar Patel, National President of CREDAI, announced plans for the development of 25 urban forests and five lakes in Ahmedabad as part of a broader sustainable development agenda.
