Surat: Assuming everything progresses as planned, the country’s first Multi-Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) project is likely to be completed by December 2026. Distinguished as the sole venture of its kind nationwide, this project is designed to seamlessly integrate railway, interstate bus, metro, and city bus services. Moreover, it will provide direct connectivity to bullet trains and airports.

Introduced in 2016, the project faced delays, hindering its start. Yet, with a Rs 878 crore investment, the foundational phase is now progressing. Notably, construction is visibly underway for two vital segments: the east side of Surat railway station and the bus terminal on the former GSRTC bus depot.

Manoj Garg, Managing Director of Surat Integrated Transportation Corporation Limited (Sitco), stated, “The project faced delays for several reasons, but it is now progressing at a commendable pace, with the goal of completion by December 2026.”

Chairman of SITCO, Manoj Das, affirmed, “The project will fulfil its promises, standing as the country’s only endeavour where such comprehensive transport integration will be realised.”

To facilitate the implementation of the Surat MMTH project, a special purpose vehicle, Sitco, has been established with the participation of the Rail Land Development Authority of the Union Railways Ministry, Gujarat State Road Development Corporation Ltd., and Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC).

The second phase of the project is slated to commence in February 2024, with an estimated cost of approximately Rs 500 crore. Das added, “Government bodies have collaborated to develop the primary (main) structure, and private entities may later join in a PPP mode for subsequent phases’ development.” DeshGujarat