Ahemdabad: In a significant move ahead of the anticipated IPL-2025 season, the Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC) has announced an extension of metro train service timings. This extension is aimed at accommodating the influx of cricket fans on match days, specifically the day/night matches scheduled at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium.
The extended service hours will begin on March 25, 2025, and apply to matches on March 29, April 9, May 2, and May 14, running from a usual 6:20 AM to a new midnight cut-off at 12:30 AM.
During these extended hours, passengers will only be able to travel between the Motera Stadium and Sabarmati Metro stations to any operational stations across both corridors of Ahmedabad Metro. More specifically, these operational routes include the journey from the Motera Stadium to APMC and from Vastral Gam to Thaltej Gam, providing vital connectivity to fans looking to enjoy the sporting event.
To further facilitate an efficient and seamless travel experience, GMRC will introduce a special paper ticket specifically for return journeys on IPL match days. This special ticket, available for a flat fee of ₹50, can be used within the designated extended hours, allowing fans to traverse between the aforementioned stations.
Ticket purchasing options will include payment through various modes. Before 10 PM, the standard contactless smart tokens, smart cards, and QR tickets will remain available. However, it's important to note that after 10 PM, only the special paper ticket will be accepted for entry at Motera Stadium and Sabarmati Metro stations.
For fans looking to avoid long queues after the matches, special paper tickets can be bought in advance at various locations, including Nirant Cross Road, Apparel Park, Kalupur, Old High Court, Thaltej, Motera, Sabarmati, Ranip, Vadaj, and Jivraj Metro stations.
In terms of frequency, the metro services will operate every 8 minutes throughout the day, and during the extended hours after 10 PM, service frequency will increase to every 6 minutes between the Motera Stadium and Sabarmati stations. “GMRC has decided to extend the timings of metro train services in Ahmedabad from 6:20 Hrs to 00:30 Hrs midnight on the said dates,” a GMRC spokesperson shared.
The last train departing from the Motera Stadium Station will also occur at 12:30 AM, ensuring that all fans have ample opportunity to return after the matches conclude.
This initiative marks a thoughtful response from GMRC to enhance the travel experience for cricket fans and aims to manage the increased demand for public transport during one of India’s most popular sporting events.
As the IPL season unfolds, GMRC continues adapting its services, ensuring public transport meets the needs of the city’s inhabitants and visitors. Such measures exemplify the commitment to providing efficient travel solutions while supporting the vibrant culture surrounding sporting events in Ahmedabad.
