Ahmedabad–Dholera Monorail Project 2025: Route, Timeline & Smart City Connectivity

The Ahmedabad–Dholera Monorail (MRTS) is one of Gujarat’s most anticipated infrastructure projects, aimed at improving connectivity between Ahmedabad City and Dholera Smart City - India’s first greenfield smart city. Designed to complement the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway and upcoming airport, this project will play a major role in transforming Dholera into a global investment hub.

Monorail / MRTS Project Overview

Project Name: Ahmedabad–Dholera Mass Rapid Transit System (Monorail)
Type: Elevated monorail corridor (parallel to Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway)
Length: Approximately 110 km
Technology: Elevated MRTS system with energy-efficient electric coaches
Stations: 7 proposed - 6 elevated, 1 at-grade at Dholera Average
Speed: 60–80 km/h

The Dholera Monorail will offer a quick, seamless connection between Ahmedabad and Dholera SIR, cutting travel time to under an hour. This initiative will serve both daily commuters and the industrial workforce, supporting Dholera’s rapid development.

Project Timeline & Phases (2025 Updates)

According to 2025 reports, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been approved by both the State and Central Governments. The project is now entering its tendering phase, with civil and system packages expected to roll out within 2025.

• DPR Status: Approved and cleared by authorities
• Tender Stage: Civil and system tenders expected in 2025
• Construction Start: Likely post-tender finalization (2025–26)
• Completion Target: Within 2.5–3 years of work start, projected by 2028–29

Once operational, the Ahmedabad to Dholera Monorail will complement other mega-projects like the Dholera International Airport and the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway, accelerating smart city development.

Project Cost & Funding Model

The total project cost is estimated to be between ₹6,000 and 7,000 crore, jointly funded by the State Government, Central Government, and DMIC-linked agencies.

• Funding Model: State–Central partnership
• Execution: EPC model under GIDB and NHAI supervision
• Implementation Agencies: Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd. (DICDL), GIDB, NHAI

This financial structure ensures stability, transparency, and timely delivery, a crucial factor for the long-term success of the Dholera Smart City project.

Route & Alignment

The monorail route closely follows the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway (NH-751 corridor), connecting the industrial ecosystem from Ahmedabad’s periphery to the Dholera Activation Area.

• Corridor Integration: Connects expressway, airport, and activation area
• Objective: Reduce commute time and support logistics and workforce movement
• Route Type: Fully elevated structure with modern signaling

By aligning with expressway infrastructure, the corridor ensures minimal land acquisition and smoother execution.

Key Locations (Proposed Stations)

1. Ahmedabad City Terminal
2. Bavla
3. Bagodara
4. Pipli
5. Bhalej/Lothal Area
6. Dholera Activation Area
7. Dholera Central Station (at-grade)

(Station list from preliminary DPR; subject to final confirmation.)

These stations are strategically placed near industrial clusters and residential zones, ensuring that both economic and community growth happen simultaneously.

Technology & System Features

The Ahmedabad–Dholera MRTS will adopt modern monorail technology that is quiet, fast, and energy-efficient.

• Elevated guideway structure with lightweight beams
• Electric monorail coaches (eco-friendly)
• Automated signalling and centralized control
• Seamless integration with expressways and road networks

This advanced MRTS design aligns with India’s sustainable urban mobility goals, making Dholera Smart City a model for next-generation infrastructure.

Legal & Real Estate Implications

The corridor will primarily use pre-acquired land along the expressway, reducing legal delays and acquisition costs.

• Land Value Appreciation: Expected rise near proposed stations
• Urban Expansion: New residential and commercial zones around Dholera SIR
• Legal Clarity: Backed by the Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board

As connectivity improves, land for sale in Dholera Smart City is projected to gain strong long-term value, especially near Dholera Monorail stations.

Tender & Execution Updates

The EPC and system tenders will be released via eProcure, NHAI, and Dholera Authority platforms. The project is managed under GIDB with work packages including:

• Civil construction
• Station development
• Rolling stock & operations
• Signalling and system integration

Government transparency in tendering will ensure that development stays on schedule and within cost estimates.

Inauguration & Future Outlook

With DPR approvals complete and tenders underway, construction is expected to begin post-2025, targeting completion between 2028 and 2029.

Once operational, the Dholera Monorail will:

• Strengthen Ahmedabad–Dholera connectivity
• Enable sustainable regional transport
• Support industrial and residential growth
• Position Dholera as a global smart city benchmark

How It Impacts Dholera Smart City Growth

The Dholera Smart City project - spread over 920 sq. km - is progressing with core infrastructure nearing completion. Projects like the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway, Monorail, and Airport are forming a multi-modal ecosystem, enabling faster logistics and urban mobility.

This directly enhances real estate potential, improves land rates, and attracts domestic and international investors seeking secure opportunities in Gujarat’s greenfield smart city corridor.

Conclusion

The Ahmedabad–Dholera Monorail represents more than just a transport project - it’s a critical step in Gujarat’s journey toward building a future-ready, smart, and connected industrial city. By 2029, Dholera is expected to emerge as one of India’s most advanced urban ecosystems, seamlessly linking business, living, and technology.