
Gujarat Declares Dholera as Special Investment Region (SIR) | February 12, 2009
DHOLERA – The Government of Gujarat officially designated Dholera as a Special Investment Region (SIR) under the provisions of the Gujarat SIR Act, initiating a bold step toward building a large-scale smart industrial city in southern Gujarat.
This move unlocked the authority to plan and develop infrastructure across 920 square kilometers, making Dholera one of the largest greenfield investment zones ever planned in India. The region was identified as a strategic growth node in line with the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) vision.
To support this transformation, the government established the Dholera Special Investment Region Development Authority (DSIRDA) to lead the area's planning, land management, and investor facilitation. Early groundwork included the launch of Town Planning Scheme 1 (TP1), outlining a phased, infrastructure-first approach to development.
The region was planned to host dedicated zones for industrial, residential, and commercial use, supported by world-class infrastructure. Discussions around land pooling began with local landowners to ensure inclusive participation in the region’s growth. Environmental and technical studies were also initiated to ensure sustainable and resilient development.
Dholera’s proximity to the Gulf of Khambhat, combined with planned road, rail, and air connectivity—including a proposed international airport—positioned it as a high-potential destination for investment and innovation.
This foundational declaration has since guided Dholera’s progress into a globally competitive smart city focused on clean energy, logistics, advanced manufacturing, and integrated urban infrastructure.