With Rajkot city witnessing rapid urban expansion and a continuous rise in population and vehicle density, traffic congestion has become a major civic challenge. To address this growing issue and improve public transport connectivity, the State Transport (ST) Department has planned a new modern bus station near Rajkot International Airport, AIIMS Hospital, and Atal Sarovar (Smart City area).
The proposed bus station will be developed at a location that experiences the highest traffic movement, ensuring smoother and more efficient public transportation services for residents, patients, passengers, industrial workers, and pilgrims.
This project is expected to significantly reduce traffic pressure within the city while offering faster, safer, and more affordable travel options.
Strategic Location Chosen for Maximum Benefit
Rajkot has been expanding rapidly in recent years, especially toward the airport, AIIMS Hospital, and Smart City zones. Recognizing this growth, authorities have identified this region as a strategically important transport hub.
The new bus station will serve major locations such as:
- AIIMS Hospital
- International Airport
- Atal Sarovar (Smart City area)
By situating the bus station near these key landmarks, the ST Department aims to ensure that public transport reaches areas with maximum daily commuter demand.
AIIMS Patients and Villagers to Get Direct Bus Connectivity
One of the most important benefits of this project is for patients visiting AIIMS Hospital, especially those coming from rural areas.
At present, many patients and their relatives face difficulties reaching AIIMS due to limited direct transport options. They often have to rely on:
Multiple auto-rickshaw rides
Expensive taxi services
Long walking distances
With the new ST bus station:
Villagers and patients will get direct bus connectivity up to AIIMS
The need to change vehicles or travel long distances on foot will be eliminated
Travel will become more economical, reliable, and comfortable
This step will be especially beneficial for elderly patients, women, and economically weaker sections.
Direct Airport Bus Services to Save Time and Money
Another major advantage is improved connectivity to Rajkot International Airport.
Currently, passengers arriving at or departing from the airport face challenges in finding direct public transport to various parts of the city and surrounding towns. The new bus station will enable:
Direct ST bus services from the airport to Rajkot and other cities
Reduced dependency on private taxis
Significant savings in both time and travel cost
This development will be particularly helpful for:
Air travelers
Airport staff
Business visitors
Tourists
Relief for Atal Sarovar and Smart City Traffic
The Atal Sarovar and Smart City areas are witnessing increasing traffic due to:
Urban development projects
Growing residential settlements
Commercial activities
The establishment of a bus station in this area will:
Reduce congestion on internal city roads
Improve city transport planning
Make public transport a more attractive option than private vehicles
As a result, city traffic management and parking pressure are expected to improve significantly.
Special Services for Industrial Areas like Metoda GIDC
Industrial zones such as Metoda GIDC employ thousands of workers who commute daily using private vehicles or crowded transport options.
With the introduction of special ST bus routes:
- Industrial workers will get safe, affordable, and punctual transport
- Traffic congestion caused by private two-wheelers and cars will reduce
- Daily commuting will become more convenient and cost-effective
- This initiative is expected to support both industrial productivity and worker welfare.
- Boost for Pilgrimage and Religious Tourism
The report also highlights benefits for religious travel. Bus services from the new station will improve connectivity to major pilgrimage destinations such as:
Somnath
Dwarka
Chotila
As a result:
Devotees will get easier and more frequent transport options
Travel-related difficulties will reduce
Religious tourism will receive a boost, benefiting local businesses and the regional economy
Reduction in Private Vehicle Usage
One of the core objectives of the project is to reduce the growing number of private vehicles on city roads.
With improved ST services:
- More people are expected to shift to public transport
- Fuel consumption will reduce
- Environmental pollution levels may come down
- Road safety is likely to improve
The project aligns with sustainable urban development goals.
Modern Infrastructure and Urban Planning Vision
The new bus station will be developed as a modern transport facility, keeping in mind future growth and increasing passenger demand.
Authorities believe this project will:
- Strengthen Rajkot’s public transport network
- Support Smart City planning objectives
- Improve overall urban mobility
The decision reflects a long-term vision to make Rajkot a well-connected, commuter-friendly city.
Conclusion
The proposed ST bus station near International Airport, AIIMS Hospital, and Atal Sarovar is a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at solving Rajkot’s traffic and transportation challenges.
By providing:
Direct hospital connectivity
Airport-linked bus services
Industrial and pilgrimage travel support
Reduced congestion and cost-effective commuting
the project promises to bring substantial relief to citizens across all sections of society.
Once implemented, this development is expected to transform public transportation in Rajkot and surrounding regions, making travel safer, easier, and more accessible for everyone.
