Mumbai, January 12, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewari – Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, the longest bridge in India and the country’s longest sea bridge. Spanning 21.8 km, the bridge connects Sewri in Mumbai to Nhava Sheva in Raigad district, promising faster connectivity to Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport.

Costing Rs 21,200 crore, the six-lane trans-harbour bridge includes a 16.5 km long sea-link, reducing travel time from Mumbai to Pune, Goa, and South India. Enhancing connectivity between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port, the Atal Setu is a significant infrastructure project.

During the inauguration, PM Modi emphasized the bridge’s importance, stating, “Atal Setu is the pride of India, a glimpse of a developed nation. In a developed India, there will be facilities for all, prosperity for all, speed, and progress. Every corner of the country will be connected, ensuring continuous life and livelihood.”

The bridge is expected to ease congestion and boost economic activities, facilitating smoother transportation of goods and people. It also holds symbolic significance as it is named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

In addition to the bridge inauguration, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for a 9.2 km underground road tunnel connecting the Eastern Freeway in eastern Mumbai to Marine Drive in south Mumbai. This tunnel, estimated to cost more than Rs 8700 crore, aims to further enhance Mumbai’s infrastructure.

To ensure medical readiness for the large gathering during the inauguration, a 500-bed makeshift hospital was set up in Raigad district’s Ulwe. This proactive measure followed a tragedy last year when 13 people suffered heatstroke and lost their lives during an award ceremony. The makeshift hospital includes 50 intensive care unit beds and 50 ambulances, focusing on medical emergencies.

The Prime Minister’s visit to Mumbai witnessed a hawker-free Colaba, as the BMC cleared hawkers from the streets to facilitate PM Modi’s convoy passage. The newly inaugurated infrastructure projects mark significant advancements in Mumbai’s connectivity and development.

By : Kruthiga V s

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