Mumbai Atal Setu: In the heart of India’s financial capital, Mumbai, a groundbreaking feat of engineering is set to redefine the city’s landscape. The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as Mumbai Atal Setu, stands as a testament to progress and connectivity, connecting Sewri in Mumbai to Chirle in Navi Mumbai. As the longest sea bridge in India, this 21.8-kilometer marvel is poised to revolutionize commuting for millions.
Historical Journey:
The inception of the idea dates back to 1962, with a visionary proposal in the ‘Planning of Road System for Mumbai Metropolitan Region.’ It took the Maharashtra government nearly 34 years to initiate a feasibility report in 1994. Hindered by bureaucratic hurdles, the project gained momentum in 2017 when the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency. This collaboration injected a much-needed boost, providing a development loan assistance of Rs 15,100 crore.
Reducing Commute Time:
The MTHL, with six lanes each 3.5 meters wide, is anticipated to significantly reduce travel distances and time. Commuting from South Mumbai to Chirle will be cut by approximately 30 kilometers, and with an estimated crossing time of just 16 minutes, the bridge is poised to save commuters at least an hour daily. This reduction in travel time is not just a convenience but a gateway to enhanced economic integration, linking Mumbai island with Navi Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Panvel, and Alibaug.
Toll Charges and Adjustments
As the bridge nears completion, the question of toll charges has been a topic of discussion. Initially set at Rs 500 for a single trip, the toll was revised to Rs 350 and later further reduced to Rs 250 following deliberations by the Maharashtra cabinet. The toll structure includes a return toll at one-and-a-half times the toll amount, a daily pass at two-and-a-half times, and a monthly pass at 50 times the toll amount.
User Experience
Anticipation is high among Mumbaikars as they eagerly await the opportunity to traverse this engineering marvel. With its 16.11 kilometers built over water, the MTHL promises not only a seamless commute but also breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. The bridge is expected to be a game-changer, offering both convenience and scenic beauty to those who embark on the journey.
Conclusion:
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link stands not just as a bridge over the sea but as a symbol of progress, connectivity, and efficient urban planning. As Prime Minister Modi inaugurates this marvel Mumbai Atal Setu, it marks a milestone in the journey of Mumbai’s infrastructure development. The MTHL is not just a bridge; it’s a pathway to a more connected and economically integrated future for the vibrant city of Mumbai.
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