Ahmedabad fast tracks industrial growth with infrastructure push

By Admin

18 Jun, 2025

Ahmedabad is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of India's industrial revolution, fueled by massive infrastructure investments and a forward-looking development agenda. A recent high-level assessment conducted by the Prime Minister across key sites in Dholera and Lothal has reaffirmed the Centre’s unwavering commitment to smart industrial corridors, sustainable heritage hubs, and next-generation logistics connectivity.

Strategic Vision for Gujarat’s Industrial Leadership

The Prime Minister’s visit highlighted a clear strategic intent to position Gujarat, especially Ahmedabad and its surrounding zones, as a leading hub for green industrialisation, integrated logistics, and knowledge-driven tourism. The assessment focused on synergizing infrastructure, innovation, and sustainability in a holistic development model.

Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway: A Game-Changer for Freight and Connectivity

At the core of this vision lies the under-construction Ahmedabad–Dholera Greenfield Expressway, being developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Officials announced that the expressway will drastically reduce travel time between Ahmedabad and Dholera to just 45 minutes, enhancing regional accessibility and industrial throughput.

The Principal Secretary emphasised the urgency of executing this project with internationally benchmarked engineering standards to ensure seamless regional integration a vital step for attracting global investments and manufacturing players.

Dholera International Airport: Gateway to the Future

Another focal point of the visit was the Dholera International Airport, engineered to handle both passenger and high-volume cargo traffic. As the cornerstone of the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR), the airport is expected to commence cargo operations by October 2025, acting as a key enabler for an efficient supply chain and export-led growth.

Air, road, and rail connectivity are being carefully aligned to create a robust logistics backbone, capable of supporting domestic industries and global supply chains alike.

Semiconductor Manufacturing Takes Off in Dholera

The development of Tata Electronics’ semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera marks a historic milestone for India's chip manufacturing ambitions. Set to produce semiconductors for mobile, automotive, and consumer electronics, the facility will establish Dholera as a global hub for semiconductor production under India’s broader semiconductor mission.

In support, the Principal Secretary reviewed nearby urban infrastructure projects by Dholera Industrial City Development Limited (DICDL), including housing, education, and healthcare, highlighting the need for community-focused design and participatory development.

Rail and Air Projects Reviewed for Holistic Integration

A strategic review meeting involving top officials from NHAI, the Airports Authority of India, Indian Railways, and others was convened to assess complementary projects like the Bhimnath–Dholera Freight Rail Link and the Ahmedabad–Dholera Semi-High-Speed Rail Line. These projects will be instrumental in crafting a multi-modal logistics ecosystem.

The Principal Secretary reiterated the importance of skilled workforce development and long-term planning, ensuring that Dholera evolves into a truly global-standard industrial city.

Reviving Maritime Legacy at Lothal

At Lothal, focus shifted to cultural preservation through the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) a flagship initiative under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. This complex aims to celebrate India’s maritime legacy, from the Harappan era to the modern day.

The Principal Secretary reviewed Phase I-A, which includes six major galleries, with a directive for completion by August 2025. Emphasis was placed on sustainable design, research-based exhibits, and international academic collaborations to elevate India’s soft power and historical identity.

Towards a Sustainable and Inclusive Future

This comprehensive review showcases the Centre’s dedication to industrial advancement paired with environmental and cultural stewardship. The government’s commitment to timelines, quality assurance, and stakeholder engagement reflects a cohesive approach to sustainable economic resilience.