Surat’s ambitious Metro Phase I project has achieved a significant engineering milestone, with tunnel boring machine ‘Amrit’ completing the final underground breakthrough at Chowk Bazar on February 11, 2026. This achievement in one of the city’s most densely populated areas marks the completion of tunneling work for a critical section of the network.
Project Progress Overview
As of early 2025, the overall physical progress of Surat Metro Phase I stood at approximately 58 percent. With the recent breakthrough, momentum has accelerated significantly. The full underground stretch of Corridor 1 (Red Line) between Kapodra and Chowk Bazar is now effectively complete, shifting focus to station finishing, track laying, and electrification.
Corridor Details:
- Corridor 1 (Red Line): Sarthana to Dream City – 21.61 km with 21 stations (underground and elevated).
- Corridor 2 (Green Line): Bhesan to Saroli – 18.74 km with 18 elevated stations. Major work, including the Tapi River bridge span near Athwalines, is already complete.
Most Advanced Section and Expected Trials
The stretch between Majura Gate and Dream City is currently the project’s most advanced segment, with approximately 96 percent of civil construction completed by late 2025. The first metro trial runs in Surat are anticipated on the Dream City to Althan route, signaling the project’s transition from construction to operational testing.
Meanwhile, construction of the elevated Althan station is nearing completion, with roofing, lift installation, and platform work in their final civil stages.
Operational Timeline
According to current project schedules:
- The first operational section of Surat Metro Phase I is expected to open by June 2026.
- The complete 40.35 km network is targeted for full completion by December 2027.
Important Advisory for Residents
Ongoing construction near Majura Gate, which will serve as an interchange station, requires temporary night closures of the nearby flyover from 11 PM to 6 AM daily. This allows engineers to safely complete girder placement and slab work. Residents are advised to plan late-night travel accordingly until work in this area concludes.
A Transformative Project Nears Reality
With tunneling complete in key sections, stations approaching readiness, and trial runs on the horizon, Surat Metro Phase I is entering its final and most visible phase. Once operational, the system promises to transform urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and provide efficient public transport across the growing city.