The Gujarat government has formally established a Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA) to strategically coordinate and develop public transport systems in Ahmedabad and Surat. This move aligns with the Central government directives promoting specialised bodies to handle integrated urban mobility solutions, especially in metro regions with rapid expansion.

According to a government resolution (GR), the creation of UMTA addresses the challenges posed by fragmented transport planning frameworks and the increasing complexity of urban development. The GR emphasises that effective urban transport systems are essential for facilitating daily functionality, progressive urbanisation, and sustainable economic growth.

UMTA is tasked with unifying all transport-related efforts across the two metropolitan areas, bringing under one umbrella various functions such as proposal formulation, strategy implementation, policy oversight, regulatory supervision, transport demand management, and inter-agency coordination. The Chief Secretary will serve as its chairperson, and members will comprise senior IAS and non-IAS officials.