Ahmedabad: The Union cabinet on Tuesday approved a 3.33km extension of the North-South corridor of the Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation Limited (GMRC), connecting GIFT City to Shahpur in Gandhinagar, at an estimated cost of Rs 1,067.35 crore.The decision was taken at meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The project, slated for completion in four years, will include three elevated stations.According to an official statement, the extended corridor is projected to serve around 23,702 passengers daily by 2029, rising to over 58,000 passengers by 2041. The route is expected to benefit major multinational companies, educational institutions and commercial hubs located along the stretch, while easing daily travel for commuters heading to GIFT City for business, employment and education.The project is also expected to generate around 1,000 jobs during the construction phase and provide employment to about 250 people in operations and maintenance after completion. Officials said the initiative will also create indirect job opportunities through allied activities.GMRC, a 50:50 joint venture between the Centre and the Gujarat govt, will implement the project.At present, Phase I of the Ahmedabad Metro spans 68.28 km, covering the APMC to Motera Stadium stretch on the North-South corridor and Thaltej Gam to Vastral Gam on the East-West corridor.
