Indian Railway Board Chairman, Anil Kumar Lahoti, recently made a crucial visit to Surat, conducting an inspection of several major railway initiatives, including the much-awaited bullet train project, the new multi-modal transportation hub, and the Surat-Udhna third line. In addition to gaining firsthand knowledge of the current status, Lahoti sought detailed progress reports on these three projects.

In particular, Lahoti viewed a presentation on the ambitious Multi-Modal Transportation Hub Project at Surat Railway Station, which is projected to cost Rs 877 crore. Given the slower-than-anticipated progress of the project, the Chairman urged for its expedited execution. He expressed satisfaction, however, at the pace of work on the bullet train project. Accompanying him was the General Manager of Western Railway, Ashok Mishra, among other officials.

Lahoti's itinerary commenced at Antroli from the Surat Circuit House at 9 am on Sunday, where he scrutinized the high-speed bullet train station. Officials from the High-Speed Rail provided a comprehensive progress report, including details about the passenger facilities planned for the station.

The Chairman also received thorough information regarding the construction process, including how rail level slabs are laid and tracks are installed. Further inspections included the bullet train's casting yard and the casting of all girders. In the afternoon, Lahoti received updates about the high-speed rail bridge under construction over the Purna river, specifically for the bullet train.

The Surat Multi-Modal Transport Hub, located in the Western Zone of Indian Railways, is designed to be a disabled-friendly space boasting various features like access ramps, lifts, textile flooring, toilets, and support arms. The goal of the project is to enhance the economy and bolster the city's tourism potential.

In terms of station amenities, Lahoti emphasized that the station should ensure road connectivity for parking, complete access control, baggage scanning, passenger security checks, and appropriate queuing and space planning. His visit to Surat concluded with a departure to Ahmedabad.