Edited By Sangeeta Das
In a historic moment, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi will inaugurate today the much-anticipated Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, marking its distinction as Bharat’s longest sea
bridge. Costing a staggering ₹17,840 crore, this engineering marvel has not
only incorporated groundbreaking technologies used for the first time in Bharat
but also prioritizes environmental sustainability with lights designed to
preserve the aquatic ecosystem.
As a part of his comprehensive vision to
enhance infrastructure and connectivity, PM Modi will unveil a series of
projects surpassing ₹30,500 crore in Maharashtra. From reducing travel time
through underground road tunnels to transformative initiatives in water supply,
railway projects, and advancements in the gems and jewellery sector, these
unveilings underscore a commitment to holistic development and ‘ease of
mobility’ for the citizens.
Features of Atal Setu
- Engineering Marvel: Atal Setu, the
Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, is hailed as an “engineering marvel” by experts. It
stands as Bharat’s longest sea bridge, constructed at a cost of ₹17,840 crore. - Eco-friendly Technology: The lights used
in Atal Setu have been designed to not disturb the aquatic environment,
showcasing a commitment to environmental sustainability. - Technological Advancements: Several
groundbreaking technologies, employed for the first time in Bharat, were
integral to the construction of Atal Setu, enhancing its significance in the
realm of infrastructure. - Connectivity Boost: Spanning
approximately 21.8 km, with 16.5 km over the sea and 5.5 km on land, Atal Setu
aims to provide faster connectivity to Mumbai and Navi Mumbai International
Airports. Additionally, it promises to reduce travel time to Pune, Goa, and
South Bharat. - Strategic Vision: Aligned with PM Modi’s
vision to enhance ‘ease of mobility,’ the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link contributes
to strengthening urban transport infrastructure and connectivity.
Other Development Projects
- Comprehensive Development: Beyond Atal
Setu, PM Modi will inaugurate projects worth over ₹30,500 crore in Maharashtra.
This includes the foundation stone laying of an underground road tunnel and the
launch of the Namo Mahila Shashaktikaran Abhiyaan. - Reducing Travel Time: The 9.2 km
underground road tunnel connecting Eastern Freeway’s Orange Gate to Marine
Drive, costing more than ₹8700 crore, is set to significantly reduce travel
time in Mumbai. - Water Supply Project: Phase 1 of the
Surya regional bulk drinking water project, developed at a cost of more than
₹1,975 crore, will provide drinking water to Palghar and Thane districts,
benefiting around 14 lakh people. - Railway Projects: PM Modi will dedicate
around ₹2000 crore worth of railway projects to the nation, further enhancing
the region’s transportation infrastructure. - Gems and Jewellery Sector Development:
Inauguration of the ‘Bharat Ratnam’ (Mega Common Facilitation Centre) for the
gems and jewellery sector at Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone
promises transformative impact, incorporating state-of-the-art technology,
including 3D metal printing, and facilitating workforce skilling.
