In a first for the city, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has developed a tree-integrated green bus shelter at the Acher AMTS station near Rajulpark Society in Sabarmati as part of its initiative to make public transport more sustainable and commuter-friendly. Instead of removing an existing mature tree, the shelter has been designed around it, allowing the tree to provide natural shade while enhancing the overall environment for passengers.
The pilot project features Vernonia elliptica climber plants, specially cultivated by the AMC, which are expected to gradually spread across the shelter’s roof to form a natural green canopy. Once fully grown, the vegetation will help lower temperatures, improve air quality and create a cooler, more pleasant waiting area for commuters.
Built with durable materials, the shelter has a dual-layer roof made of weather-resistant FRP sheets and cement boards to minimise heat. Powder-coated mild steel columns support the structure, while ergonomic HPL benches and RCC seating platforms around the tree offer comfortable seating and long-term durability.
The civic body has also incorporated sustainable construction practices by using recycled construction and demolition (C&D) waste in the anti-skid paver blocks and kerb stones. Other commuter-friendly features include LED lighting, a rainwater harvesting system, digital passenger information boards and modern signage.
According to the AMC, the project is envisioned as a “living” urban structure that will become greener over time rather than serving only as a bus stop. If successful, similar tree-integrated green shelters could be developed at other public transport locations across Ahmedabad to provide commuters with a more comfortable and environmentally sustainable travel experience.