Distinct Character of Ahmedabad’s Roads Fuels Economic Transformation

A recent study by CEPT University students has brought to light the diverse commercial significance of six major roads in Ahmedabad: SG Highway, CG Road, Ashram Road, Relief Road, Narol-Naroda Road, and Vastral-Odhav Road. These roads, each with its distinct characteristics, have evolved over time to cater to specific economic needs, and collectively, they have transformed Ahmedabad into a bustling trade and commerce hub. The study highlights the important role these roads play in the city’s business ecosystem, with their unique commercial characteristics driving growth and economic diversity.

Ashram Road, one of the oldest commercial corridors in Ahmedabad, is a key player in the city’s corporate sector, housing financial institutions, offices, and prominent landmarks. In contrast, CG Road represents the modern face of Ahmedabad’s commerce, with upscale retail outlets, corporate offices, and a lively nightlife. Relief Road, with its rich historical context, is a bustling wholesale market area, known for its affordable goods and vibrant atmosphere, while SG Highway and Vastral-Odhav Road mark Ahmedabad’s shift towards sprawling, car-centric commercial development. Each road, therefore, adds its own flavour to the city’s commercial landscape, catering to different facets of business.

According to Professor Tarun Patel, who supervised the study, the roads reflect the changing urban fabric of Ahmedabad. SG Highway, for example, is marked by expansive developments, with the highest land prices, while Relief Road and CG Road showcase more compact, pedestrian-friendly zones, highlighting the city’s historic commerce. Interestingly, Ashram Road has the highest permissible Floor Space Index (FSI) but remains underutilized, which reflects a slow pace of redevelopment in some areas. This urban mix of traditional and modern commercial hubs provides Ahmedabad with a unique blend of old and new, enhancing its business prospects.

From a sustainability angle, the commercial roads of Ahmedabad also present a shift towards greener urban planning. While the sprawling developments of SG Highway and Vastral-Odhav Road focus on catering to modern commercial needs, they also raise questions about traffic congestion and air quality. However, with initiatives such as the BRTS system and the Sabarmati Riverfront development, the city is gradually incorporating eco-friendly infrastructure to balance urban growth with environmental sustainability. The evolution of these commercial roads is thus a clear reflection of Ahmedabad’s journey towards becoming a more sustainable and efficient urban hub.