Gujarats Dholera: A Hub of Development and Connectivity Initiatives
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reviews ongoing projects in Dholera, including a new airport and high-speed railway line.
Ahmedabad, October 16 (Daily Kiran) : In Ahmedabad, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel recently assessed various ongoing projects in the Dholera region, which is set to become a significant industrial hub. The Dholera International Airport is expected to commence operations by the end of this year, and a semi-high-speed railway line connecting Ahmedabad to Dholera has received approval, with an estimated cost of ₹20,667 crores.
During his visit, Patel reviewed the progress of industrial, urban, and social infrastructure projects, including the Tata Electronics semiconductor fabrication facility. This facility is a key component of the planned semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem in the area. A successful calibration flight recently landed at the airport, marking an important milestone toward its operational launch.
The airport and the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway are poised to enhance connectivity in the region, which aims to establish itself as a center for advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies. To facilitate rapid transport, a 134-kilometer-long semi-high-speed double railway line has been approved, connecting Ahmedabad, Dholera, and the logistics hub at Lothal.
Additionally, a 23-kilometer railway line for the Bhimanath-Dholera logistics hub is under development. During his tour, Patel examined the construction of the Tata Electronics semiconductor facility, which is crucial for the semiconductor ecosystem.
This facility is anticipated to boost semiconductor manufacturing, support industries, and provide skilled employment opportunities. Patel also inspected the social infrastructure being developed in the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR) to cater to the needs of future industry employees and residents.
The planned amenities include a 200-bed multi-speciality hospital, an integrated school, a fire station, a guest house with 42 rooms, a food court with a capacity of 600, a tent city with 50 tents, a hotel, and various residential and commercial projects.
Moreover, Patel reviewed a tree plantation initiative conducted by the Forest Department in collaboration with the Goodwill Trust, which aims to plant over 111,000 saplings across 53 hectares of green space. He assessed the use of “drum plantation” technology, designed to improve the survival rate of trees, while also considering the balance between industrial growth and environmental protection.
The Chief Minister also evaluated the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex being developed in Lothal. This review is part of the state government’s on-site assessments of major development projects aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.
During the visit, Dr. Kuldeep Arya, Managing Director of Dholera Industrial City Development Limited (DICDL), provided a comprehensive presentation on the progress of the Dholera Special Investment Region, covering industrial and urban infrastructure, social facilities, connectivity projects, and the roadmap for future development in the area. Dholera is being developed as a semiconductor manufacturing center, supported by essential transport links and facilities for residents and workers.
