According to an official statement, Atal Setu aligns seamlessly with the Prime Minister’s vision to enhance the populace’s mobility by fortifying urban transport infrastructure and connectivity, as conveyed by news agency PTI. In December 2016, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for this visionary bridge, now spanning an impressive 21.8 km with six lanes. Of this expanse, approximately 16.5 km gracefully traverses the sea, while the remaining 5.5 km weaves through the land.
This monumental bridge promises accelerated connectivity to both Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport, truncating travel time between Mumbai and Pune, Goa, and South India. Furthermore, it envisages enhanced linkage between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port, as elucidated in the official statement.
During a public gathering in Navi Mumbai, the prime minister is scheduled to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for diverse projects, including an underground road tunnel connecting Eastern Freeway’s Orange Gate to Marine Drive. This 9.2-km-long subterranean passage, a noteworthy Mumbai infrastructure development, commands a budget exceeding Rs 8,700 crore.
Among the multifarious projects, the PM will dedicate Phase 1 of the Surya regional bulk drinking water initiative to the nation. Realized at a cost exceeding Rs 1,975 crore, this venture aims to furnish potable water to the Palghar and Thane districts of Maharashtra, positively impacting around 14 lakh inhabitants.
Adding to the roster of inaugurations, the Prime Minister will launch various railway projects. One noteworthy endeavor is the inauguration of ‘Bharat Ratnam’ (Mega Common Facilitation Centre) for the Gems and Jewellery sector at Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone- Special Economic Zone (SEEPZ SEZ). This pioneering center, the first of its kind in India, boasts state-of-the-art machinery, including 3D metal printing, elevating the industry to new heights.