Ahmedabad gets city’s first tree-integrated green bus shelter at Acher

Ahmedabad : As part of its efforts to make the city’s public transport system more eco-friendly, comfortable and aesthetically appealing, the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has set up the city’s first tree-integrated green bus shelter as a pilot project at the Acher AMTS station near Rajulpark Society in the Sabarmati area. Instead of cutting down a mature tree, the shelter has been designed around it, making the tree the centrepiece of the structure. The design is expected to provide passengers with natural shade, cleaner air and relief from the heat.

The shelter features specially selected Vernonia elliptica climber plants developed by the AMC, which are expected to naturally spread across the roof over the coming months. Once fully grown, the green canopy will provide additional shade, improve the surrounding air quality, reduce surface temperatures and create an attractive public space.

The green bus shelter has been constructed using durable, high-quality materials. Its dual-layer roof comprises weather-resistant FRP sheets and cement sheet boards to help reduce the temperature inside the shelter. The structure is supported by powder-coated mild steel columns, while ergonomic HPL benches and RCC platforms around the tree provide comfortable seating for passengers, ensuring long-term durability.

To promote environmental sustainability and a circular economy, recycled construction and demolition (C&D) waste has been used in the anti-skid paver blocks and kerb stones. The shelter is also equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting, an intelligent rainwater harvesting system, modern commuter information boards and high-quality signage for the convenience of passengers.

According to the AMC, the project is intended to evolve into a living urban structure that becomes greener over time rather than serving merely as a bus waiting area. By integrating nature with modern infrastructure, the civic body hopes the green bus shelter will serve as a model for similar public transport facilities across the city, offering commuters a more comfortable and environmentally friendly experience.