Named Atal Setu, it is the longest sea bridge in India
India will witness a historic moment on January 12, 2024, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the 'Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri - Nhava Sheva Atal Setu' (Mumbai Trans Harbour Link), a feat of modern engineering that stands as the nation's longest sea bridge. This inaugural event is part of the Prime Minister's comprehensive agenda to unveil several key development projects in Maharashtra, collectively worth over INR 30,500 crores.
 
Key Features of Atal Setu
 
Construction Excellence: Built with an investment of around INR 17,840 crore, the Atal Setu spans an impressive 21.8 km, including a 16.5 km expanse over the Arabian Sea. This monumental six-lane bridge not only claims the title of the longest bridge in India but also represents a significant advancement in the nation’s architectural and engineering capabilities.
 
Revolutionizing Connectivity: The bridge promises to transform the current travel scenario between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Where a journey currently takes close to two hours, largely due to traffic congestion, Atal Setu is set to reduce this to a mere 20 minutes, marking a pivotal leap in urban mobility and connectivity.
 
Strategic Importance: The bridge will serve as a vital artery, enhancing access to both the Mumbai International and Navi Mumbai International Airports. Moreover, it is poised to streamline travel to major southern regions of India, including Pune, Goa, and beyond, while also bolstering connectivity between major ports.
 
Safety and Regulation: Emphasizing safety, the Mumbai police have declared a maximum speed limit of 100 kmph for most vehicles, with a reduced limit on the bridge’s ascent and descent. To ensure the smooth flow of traffic and safety, motorcycles, autorickshaws, and tractors will not be permitted on the bridge.
 
Comprehensive Development Initiatives
  
Alongside the inauguration of Atal Setu, Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stone for a significant underground tunnel project and will unveil the 'Bharat Ratnam' and New Enterprises & Services Tower (NEST) 01 at SEEPZ SEZ, signalling a robust push in the Gems and Jewellery sector.
 
Moreover, the Surya regional bulk drinking water project will be dedicated to the nation, aiming to benefit around 14 lakh residents of Palghar and Thane districts. This, along with the dedication of Rs 2000 crore in railway projects, is a portion of the government’s recent manifesto focused on improving the quality of life for its citizens.
 
Empowering Women and Youth
  
In a bid to empower women in Maharashtra, the Prime Minister will launch the Namo Mahila Shashaktikaran Abhiyaan, a program dedicated to skill development and entrepreneurial training. Additionally, the 27th National Youth Festival in Nashik, themed 'Viksit Bharat@ 2047: युवा के लिए, युवा के द्वारा', will be inaugurated, emphasizing the role of youth in shaping a progressive India.
 
The inauguration of the Atal Setu and the slew of development projects marks a new era in India's journey towards becoming a connected and progressive nation. This event not only demonstrates the government's dedication to infrastructural excellence but also reflects a deeper commitment to enhancing the lives of its citizens through strategic and inclusive development.