MUMBAI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to inaugurate the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), known as Atal Setu, on Friday. The 21.8-kilometer sea bridge, a marvel of engineering, holds the distinction of being India’s longest and is poised to redefine the city’s connectivity.
Prime Minister Modi will mark the inauguration by traversing the sea-bridge from INS Shikara in Colaba to Navi Mumbai.
A public meeting in Navi Mumbai will witness the dedication of three other key infrastructure projects, with the foundation stone laid for another.
The sea-bridge, operational from Saturday, initially targets commuters between south Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, significantly reducing travel time.
The full potential of Atal Setu will be realized with the completion of complementary projects, including the Sewri-Worli elevated corridor, Eastern Freeway-Marine Drive tunnel, Chirle-Palaspe connection with the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and the upcoming international airport in Navi Mumbai.
Over the next five years, these projects, with a combined investment of Rs 21,200 crore, will integrate the western and eastern waterfronts of Mumbai through a network of tunnels and flyovers.
The initial one-way toll for the bridge is set at Rs 250, with a round trip costing Rs 375.
MTHL will provide a shorter route to the Navi Mumbai International Airport, expected to commence operations in December.
Both Atal Setu and the airport are envisioned as twin engines propelling the development of ‘Third Mumbai,’ covering 334 sq km.
Third Mumbai, part of the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA), is designed as a residential, commercial, and business hub.
Third Mumbai, unlike its predecessor NAINA, holds promise due to the 20-minute drive facilitated by MTHL, access to the upcoming airport, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust, and a link road to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
Railway and metro connectivity plans further enhance the prospects, potentially revitalizing NAINA as well.
Atal Setu Infrastructure Highlights:
- The MTHL, officially named the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, has been constructed at a cost of ₹17,840 Cr.
- The bridge spans 16.50 kilometers over the sea and 5.5 km on land, boasting six lanes.
- Notably, it is the 12th longest sea bridge globally, with 177,903 metric tonnes of steel and 504,253 metric tonnes of cement used in its construction.
Atal Setu Traffic Regulations:
- The sea bridge imposes a speed limit of 100 kmph for four-wheelers, while prohibiting auto rickshaws, tractors, and motorbikes.
- Multi-axle heavy vehicles, buses, and trucks heading to Mumbai have designated routes for entry.
- Light motor vehicles face a speed limit of 100 kmph, reduced to 40 kmph during ascents and descents, implemented to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.
As the Atal Setu opens its gates to commuters, it marks a significant leap forward in Mumbai’s infrastructure, promising not just shorter commutes but acting as a catalyst for the city’s expansive growth.