Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/business/railways-mumbai-ahmedabad-bullet-train-stations-inclusive-and-eco-friendly-designs-set-to-transform-urban-landscape-in-indianbsp-3659875/
Publisher: The Financial Express
The upcoming Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor promises not just speed but an architectural marvel that will connect the spirit of each city along its route. The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) has unveiled the designs of the 12 high-speed rail stations, each one carefully crafted to mirror the unique cultural and historical ethos of the cities they are situated in.
Station facade designs
Mumbai Station: Inspired by the Arabian Sea, the entry structure design will emulate the clouds and crashing tides, showcasing the dynamic essence of Mumbai’s coastal landscape.
Thane Station: Situated near the Ulhas River, the roof design is influenced by river waves, evoking the natural beauty and rhythmic flow of the water.
Virar Station: Nestled in a hilly area, Virar’s station design captures the winds from the mountains, symbolizing the city’s natural surroundings and breeze from the hills.
Boisar Station: Reflecting the fishing heritage of the local Konkani community, Boisar’s facade will be an abstract depiction of fishing nets, paying homage to the city’s coastal and fishing traditions.
Vapi Station: Known for its industrial pace, Vapi’s design will symbolize speed and efficiency, reflecting the city’s bustling atmosphere and fast-moving lifestyle.
Bilimora Station: Famous for mango orchards, the station’s facade will feature an abstract representation of mango trees, with passenger areas designed to bring in ample natural light and ventilation.
Surat Station: Surat, renowned for its diamond industry, will have a station facade and ceilings designed to resemble diamond facets, celebrating the city’s global reputation in the diamond trade.
Bharuch Station: Honoring Bharuch’s 150-year-old cotton weaving heritage, the station will incorporate cotton-inspired designs, recognizing the city’s historical craftsmanship and artistry.
Anand Station: Dubbed the “Milk City of India,” Anand’s station design will draw from the fluid shape, nature, and color of milk droplets, paying tribute to the city’s dairy industry and its status as the milk capital.
Vadodara Station: The design will be inspired by the profile and foliage of a banyan tree, reflecting the abundant banyan trees in the city and symbolizing the city’s name, Vadodara (Vad means banyan).
Ahmedabad Station: Celebrating Ahmedabad’s rich culture and heritage, the roof will be a canvas of colorful kites, while the facade will incorporate intricate lattice work inspired by Syed Siddique’s Jaali, representing the tree of life.
Sabarmati Station: As the terminal station, it will honor Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy with a design inspired by the Sabarmati River and Gandhi’s charkha, incorporating wave-like patterns and the Ashoka chakra’s spikes.
Each station will meet international standards, offering modern amenities like lounges, seating areas, intuitive passenger flow, nurseries, and lockers for day travelers. The stations will also have inclusive features, such as wheelchair-friendly spaces, braille signage, and accessible washrooms for differently-abled passengers.
The project emphasizes environmental sustainability, incorporating solar panels, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, and designs that maximize natural light and ventilation.