Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, also known as Atal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge, today. The bridge, built at a cost of approximately ₹17,840 crore, is considered an “engineering marvel” due to the application of advanced technologies and environmental considerations.
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, highlighted the novel technologies used in the bridge’s construction, describing it as the longest sea bridge in India. Notably, the lighting system in Atal Setu is designed to not disturb the aquatic environment, adding to its environmental sustainability.
PM Modi’s visit to Maharashtra includes the unveiling of projects valued at over ₹30,500 crore. In addition to inaugurating Atal Setu, he will lay the foundation stone for an underground road tunnel connecting Eastern Freeway’s Orange Gate and launch the Namo Mahila Shashaktikaran Abhiyaan in the state.
The Mumbai Transharbour link (MTHL), now named ‘Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri – Nhava Sheva Atal Setu,’ aligns with PM Modi’s vision to enhance “ease of mobility” by strengthening urban transport infrastructure and connectivity. The bridge, spanning approximately 21.8 km with a six-lane configuration, includes 16.5 km over the sea and 5.5 km on land.
Atal Setu aims to provide quicker access to Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport, reducing travel time between Mumbai, Pune, Goa, and South India. Additionally, it enhances connectivity between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.
In Navi Mumbai, PM Modi will unveil development projects exceeding ₹12,700 crore, including the foundation stone for an underground road tunnel connecting Eastern Freeway’s Orange Gate to Marine Drive. This 9.2 km tunnel, costing over ₹8,700 crore, is a significant infrastructure development expected to reduce travel time.
The inauguration ceremony will also feature the dedication of phase 1 of the Surya regional bulk drinking water project, valued at over ₹1,975 crore. This project will supply drinking water to Palghar and Thane districts, benefiting approximately 14 lakh people.
PM Modi will dedicate about ₹2,000 crore worth of railway projects to the nation during the event. Additionally, he will inaugurate ‘Bharat Ratnam’ (Mega Common Facilitation Centre) for the gems and jewellery sector at Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone-Special Economic Zone (SEEPZ SEZ), enhancing the export sector and supporting domestic manufacturing. The facility will include a training school for workforce skilling, accommodating specially abled students and utilizing state-of-the-art machines, including 3D metal printing.