Atal Setu, India’s Longest Sea Bridge, to be Inaugurated by PM Modi Today; Showcases Technological Marvels
Written by Sanjay Kumar
In a historic moment for India’s infrastructure development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri–Nhava Sheva Atal Setu today. Costing approximately ₹17,840 crore, this engineering marvel is not only India’s longest bridge but also the longest sea bridge in the country.
Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, highlighted the groundbreaking technologies employed in the construction, emphasizing their debut in the Indian infrastructure landscape. Particularly noteworthy is the environmentally conscious lighting system that ensures minimal disturbance to the aquatic environment.
PM Modi Unveils Projects Worth Over ₹30,500 Crore During Maharashtra Visit
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Maharashtra extends beyond the inauguration of Atal Setu, as he is scheduled to unveil projects worth over ₹30,500 crore in the state. The Prime Minister’s vision to enhance ‘ease of mobility’ of citizens through improved urban transport infrastructure is evident in the projects inaugurated.
Atal Setu to Revolutionize Connectivity and Reduce Travel Time
Atal Setu, stretching over 21.8 km with a six-lane bridge covering 16.5 km over the sea and 5.5 km on the land, is set to significantly enhance connectivity. It promises faster travel to Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport while reducing travel time to Pune, Goa, and South India. The bridge will also strengthen connectivity between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.
Infrastructure Boost: Underground Tunnel, Water Project, and Railways
As part of the visit, PM Modi is expected to lay the foundation stone for a 9.2 km underground road tunnel connecting Eastern Freeway’s Orange Gate to Marine Drive, aiming to reduce travel time and enhance urban transport.
The dedication of phase 1 of the Surya regional bulk drinking water project, developed at a cost of over ₹1,975 crore, will provide drinking water to Palghar and Thane districts, benefitting around 14 lakh people.
Additionally, the Prime Minister is anticipated to dedicate ₹2,000 crore worth of railway projects and inaugurate the ‘Bharat Ratnam’ Mega Common Facilitation Centre (CFC) at Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone- Special Economic Zone (SEEPZ SEZ). This state-of-the-art facility for the gems and jewellery sector, equipped with the latest technologies, will also host a training school for skill development, contributing to the growth of this vital industry.
In summary, PM Modi’s visit to Maharashtra is poised to mark the inauguration of the nation’s longest sea bridge and showcase a commitment to transforming urban transport, water supply, and trade through cutting-edge infrastructure projects.