Introduction

Recently, PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated Atal Setu Bridge, which is considered to be the longest sea bridge in India connecting the length of 21.8 Kilometers. This longest Sear bridge in India is considered as Engineering Marvel in India & getting all spaces in trending news of India.

What is Atal Setu? – Atal Setu UPSC

About Atal Setu:

Atal Setu, formerly known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), is India’s longest sea bridge connecting Sewri in Mumbai to Nhava Sheva in Uran taluka, Raigad district.

Features of Atal Setu

There are many features of Atal Setu, This is why, it considered to be an engineering marvel in India. However, we have added a few of major features of Atal Setu Below-

1. Noise and Vision Barriers: Installed on a 6 km stretch, these barriers protect birds at Sewri mudflats and block the view of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre.
2. Bird Watching Platform: A 5.6 km temporary bridge repurposed to a bird-watching platform to observe flamingos and other birds.
3. Traffic Management Measures: Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) and Intelligent Transportation Management System (ITMS) ensure efficient traffic control.
4. Structural Steel: 120,000 tonnes of steel used, equivalent to four Howrah Bridges.
5. Concrete Usage: Over 830,000 cubic meters used, six times more than the Statue of Unity construction.
6. Reinforced Steel: 17 times the quantity used in the Eiffel Tower.
7. Corrosion-Resistant Construction: Withstands weather, high wind speeds, tides, earthquakes (up to 6.5 magnitude), and cyclones.
8. Orthotropic Steel Decks (OSDs): Seventy spans, 65 to 180 meters long, weighing up to 2,800 metric tons, erected across Thane Creek using Japanese technology.
9. Comprehensive Surveillance System (CSS): Network of HD CCTV cameras along the route.
10. Speed Violation Detection System (SVDS): Enforces speed limits for enhanced road safety.
11. Video Incident Detection System (VIDS): Promptly detects and responds to incidents.
12. Emergency Calling Boxes (ECBs): Direct communication link to emergency services.
13. Variable Message Display (VMD): Provides real-time information to commuters.
14. Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA): Paved on both sides, increases pavement life, reduces traffic noise, and offers high skid resistance.
15. Stone Matrix Asphalt: Used on the bridge, enhancing pavement life and visibility.
16. Recyclable Pavements: 100% recyclable SMA pavements, reducing environmental pollution.
17. Carbon Footprint Reduction: Strict speed limits to reduce vehicular emissions.
18. Special Light Poles: 1,212 poles illuminate carriageways without disturbing marine life, earning eco-friendly certification.
19. Sustainability Measures: Recognized by the Bombay Natural History Society for eco-friendly practices.
20. Weather-Resistant: Withstands environmental variations, contributing to a lifespan of over a century.

Cost of Atal Setu

The cost of building Atal Setu, initially estimated at ₹4,000 crore in 2005, increased over the years. By 2017, it reached ₹17,843 crore.

Factors like environmental concerns and compensations, including ₹70 crore for fishermen and ₹45 crore for noise barriers, added to the expenses. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funded 85% through a loan.

Benefits of Atal Setu

We have added a few key benefits of Atal Setu below-

1. Reduced Travel Time: Atal Setu significantly cuts down the travel time between Sewri and Chirle, reducing a two-hour journey to approximately 20 minutes.
2. Enhanced Connectivity: The bridge provides faster connectivity to Mumbai International Airport, Navi Mumbai International Airport, and improves links between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.
3. Economic Integration: Anticipated to facilitate greater economic integration, Atal Setu’s benefits extend to areas like Panvel, Alibaug, Pune, and Goa.
4. Improved Mumbai-Pune Connectivity: The bridge contributes to better connectivity between Mumbai and Pune, streamlining transportation along this critical route.
5. Infrastructure Development: Inaugurating Atal Setu showcases India’s infrastructural prowess, reflecting a commitment to advancing urban transport infrastructure.
6. Urban Mobility: Aligned with the vision to enhance the ‘ease of mobility’ for citizens, the bridge strengthens urban transport infrastructure and connectivity.
7. Technological Advancements: Incorporating innovative technologies like Reverse Circulation Drilling, Orthotropic Steel Deck, and Open Road Tolling, Atal Setu represents engineering excellence.
8. Traffic Management Systems: Equipped with Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) and Intelligent Transportation Management System (ITMS) for efficient traffic control.
9. Environmental Sustainability: Atal Setu’s eco-friendly features include noise and vision barriers, stone matrix asphalt, and special light poles to minimize impact on the environment.
10. Recognition and Certification: The bridge has received recognition from environmental organizations, earning a sustainability certificate from the Bombay Natural History Society, underlining its commitment to sustainable practices.

Technologies Incorporated with Atal Setu

Atal Setu in Mumbai incorporates several advanced technologies to ensure its structural integrity, efficiency, and sustainability. Some of the notable technologies used in the construction of Atal Setu include:

All Details about Atal Setu

These are the key facts about Atal Setu, which you need to consider while  reading it about…

Top 10 Intersting Facts about Atal Setu

We have added Top 10 Intersting Facts about Atal Setu below-

1. Marvel Over the Sea

Atal Setu, fondly known as the Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Trans Harbour Link, stands as India’s grandest sea bridge, stretching an incredible 21.8 kilometers.

2. Time Traveler’s Dream

Bid farewell to the two-hour Mumbai-Navi Mumbai commute! Atal Setu slashes travel time to a mere 15-20 minutes, turning a daily grind into a breeze.

3. Atal’s Tribute

Named after the visionary leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the bridge is a living tribute to the former Prime Minister’s indelible legacy.

4. Global Support

Thanks to Japan’s helping hand through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), symbolizing a harmonious blend of international efforts.

5. Tech Wonder

Atal Setu flaunts cool construction tech – think Reverse Circulation Drilling (RCD), Orthotropic Steel Deck (OSD), and an Open Road Tolling (ORT) system. It’s not just a bridge; it’s a tech spectacle.

6. Eco Chic

Mother Nature approves! Noise and vision barriers shield critters, and eco-friendly lighting keeps marine life happy, making Atal Setu a shining example of environmental coexistence.

7. Steel Symphony

Imagine 120,000 tonnes of structural steel – that’s like putting up four Howrah Bridges! Atal Setu isn’t just a bridge; it’s a steel orchestra.

8. Traffic Wizardry

With an Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS), Atal Setu isn’t just about reaching your destination; it’s about getting there smoothly and safely.

9. Eye in the Sky

Surveillance galore! High-def CCTV cameras, Speed Violation Detection System (SVDS), Emergency Calling Boxes (ECBs) – Atal Setu keeps a watchful eye on safety.

10. Green Badge

Atal Setu isn’t just big; it’s green-certified! The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) gives it a nod for eco-friendly practices. It’s not just a bridge; it’s a green journey.

FAQs on Atal Setu – Atal Setu UPSC Questions

Question-1: What is Atal Setu?

Answer. Atal Setu, officially known as the Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Trans Harbour Link, is a mega sea bridge connecting Sewri in South Mumbai to Chirle in Navi Mumbai, cutting travel time significantly.

Question-2: How long is Atal Setu Mumbai?

Answer. The bridge spans an impressive 21.8 kilometers, making it the longest sea bridge in India.

Question-3: Why is Atal Setu Mumbai named Atal Setu?

Answer. It’s a tribute to the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, honoring his visionary leadership.

Question-4: Who funded the project of Atal Setu Mumbai?

Answer. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) provided financial assistance, covering 80% of the total project cost.

Question-5: What technologies are used in Atal Setu Mumbai’s construction?

Answer. Atal Setu boasts innovative tech like Reverse Circulation Drilling (RCD), Orthotropic Steel Deck (OSD), and an Open Road Tolling (ORT) system.

Question-6: How does Atal Setu Mumbai benefit commuters?

Answer. Commuters can rejoice as the bridge drastically reduces travel time between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai from two hours to 15-20 minutes.

Question-7: Is Atal Setu Mumbai environmentally friendly?

Answer. Yes, Atal Setu incorporates noise and vision barriers, eco-friendly lighting, and has received a sustainability certificate from the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS).

Question-8: What’s the toll cost of Atal Setu Mumbai?

Answer. Toll costs vary for different vehicles, with prices ranging from ₹250 for a single car trip to ₹2370 for an oversized truck round trip.

Question-9: When was Atal Setu Mumbai inaugurated?

Answer. Atal Setu was inaugurated on January 12, 2024, opening a new chapter in Mumbai’s transport landscape.

Question-10: How long did it take to build Atal Setu Mumbai?

Answer. Construction commenced on April 24, 2018, and concluded in December 2023, marking a substantial engineering feat in a relatively short time.

Question-11: Atal Setu located on which river?

Answer. Atal Setu, officially known as the Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Trans Harbour Link, spans Thane Creek. It is a sea bridge connecting Sewri in South Mumbai to Chirle in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.