New Delhi, January 12, 2024 – In a landmark development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu in Navi Mumbai. This monumental structure, named in honor of the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, stands as the longest bridge in India, including being the country’s longest sea bridge.
Constructed at a staggering cost of over Rs 17,840 crores, the Atal Setu spans approximately 21.8 kilometers, featuring a six-lane bridge with 16.5 kilometers stretching over the sea and the remaining 5.5 kilometers on land. The Prime Minister, during the inauguration, visited a photo gallery and a detailed model of the Atal Setu, gaining insights into its architectural and engineering marvel.
In a statement released on social media, Prime Minister Modi expressed his enthusiasm about the project: “Delighted to inaugurate Atal Setu, a significant step forward in enhancing the ‘Ease of Living’ for our citizens. This bridge promises to reduce travel time and boost connectivity, making daily commutes smoother.”
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of notable dignitaries, including Maharashtra’s Governor Ramesh Bais, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar.
The Atal Setu forms a critical part of Prime Minister Modi’s vision to augment the ‘ease of mobility’ for citizens by bolstering urban transport infrastructure. The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), now rechristened as the ‘Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri – Nhava Sheva Atal Setu’, was a project initiated with the laying of its foundation stone by the Prime Minister in December 2016.
This engineering feat not only establishes a new record as the longest bridge in India but also plays a pivotal role in improving connectivity. It is expected to significantly reduce travel time to both the Mumbai International Airport and the Navi Mumbai International Airport. Additionally, the bridge will enhance travel efficiency from Mumbai to Pune, Goa, and South India while improving the connection between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port, promising a transformative impact on the region’s economy and daily life of its residents.
