Surat metro debuts on tracks with Diamond Corridor trial

Surat: Surat metro rolled onto the tracks on Sunday, marking a key milestone as the first trial run was carried out on the Diamond Corridor after years of construction and delays.The trial was carried out on an 8.5km stretch between Dream City and Althan Tenament, covering seven stations. With this, commuters can expect metro services up to Majura Gate on both corridors soon.Officials said the viaduct and track-laying work on this stretch have been completed, along with the structural construction of all seven stations. Entry-exit structures and finishing works are also nearing completion.As part of the process, trial runs of around 500 hours will be conducted along with detailed inspections. The metro will be opened to passengers after approvals from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) and the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).The Surat metro project spans 40.3km across two corridors. The Diamond Corridor runs 21.6km from Dream City to Sarthana with 20 stations, including six underground ones.The second, Textile Corridor, covers 18.7km between Bhesan and Saroli with 18 stations. Work up to Adajan Gam station has been completed, and trials on this stretch are expected soon.Sources said officials are aiming to begin initial services between Dream City–Majura and Bhesan–Majura stretches on both corridors.