Vadodara bullet train station to link high-speed rail with city transport

Vadodara's upcoming bullet train station is being planned as a key interchange point that will connect the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor with the city's existing transport network. The station is being built above Platform number 7 of Vadodara railway station, with the aim of making transfers between the bullet train, Indian Railways services and road-based public transport easier for passengers.

The design brings together the Western Railway station and the city's central and interstate bus depot at one location, a move expected to benefit travellers moving to and from major cities along the corridor such as Ahmedabad, Surat and Mumbai.

Three foot over bridges

A central element of the plan is a network of three foot over bridges (FOBs), each meant for a different set of passenger movements.

The longest of the three, at 534 metres, will link the bullet train station with Vadodara railway station and the GSRTC Central Bus Depot. It will be fitted with travelators to make the transfer between rail and bus services easier.

A second FOB, 90 metres long, will connect the bullet train station to the Alkapuri side of the city, crossing over the existing railway tracks. The third, measuring 51 metres, will link the station with its parking area and station plaza, with lifts and escalators provided for accessibility.

Passenger facilities and design

The station is being planned around passenger convenience, with waiting areas, restrooms, retail spaces and dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones. Separate parking is planned for cars, buses and autos. A station plaza with waiting areas, landscaping and clear wayfinding will also form part of the development.

The architecture draws inspiration from the banyan tree, reflecting Vadodara's association with the Vad tree, while passenger areas are designed to allow natural light and views of the sky.

Connectivity and opportunity

Once high-speed services begin, the station is expected to improve access to educational institutions, examinations, internships, jobs, research and business opportunities in major cities. The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited noted that Vadodara is home to institutions including Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, IIIT Vadodara, Navrachana University, Parul University and Sumandeep Vidyapeeth, and said mobility is closely linked to opportunity for thousands of students and young professionals travelling for education, work and professional engagements while staying connected with family and friends.