India’s Longest Sea Bridge in Mumbai – Atal Setu

January 12, 2024

GS Paper III Indian Economy

Context:

Recently, the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as Atal Setu, the longest sea bridge in India, has been inaugurated by the Prime Minister.

Atal Setu: Engineering Marvel Connecting Mumbai and Navi Mumbai with Advanced Features

The Atal Setu bridge which is India’s longest sea bridge spans 22 km and includes a six-lane sea bridge of 16.5 km and a 5.5 km-long elevated road on land.
Origin: India’s longest sea bridge originates from Sewri in Mumbai and ends at Nhava Sheva in Uran taluka in Raigad district.

Advanced Features of the Atal Setu bridge

Constructed with corrosion-resistant material for durability.
Equipped with an Intelligent Traffic Management system.
Features a Video Incident Detection system for prompt response.
Includes a Speed Enforcement system for maintaining safe speeds.
It has emergency call boxes for immediate assistance.
Comprises comprehensive surveillance system for enhanced security.
Incorporates Open Road Tolling for seamless toll management.

It is the 12th longest sea bridge in the world.
Benefits:
- MTHL is able to reduce the two-hour journey between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai to a swift 20-minute ride.
- It will provide faster connectivity to Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport.

Atal Setu: Balancing Progress and Environmental Concerns in Mumbai’s Coastal Landscape

Impact on Fishing Communities: The implementation of the project poses significant challenges to local livelihoods, particularly those of fishing communities.
- Disruption of Fishing Grounds: Construction activities disturb fish breeding grounds and migration routes, which in turn affect the overall fish populations.
- Loss of Access: Traditional fishing areas may become inaccessible, compelling fishermen to travel longer distances or resort to less productive fishing zones.
- Damage to Fishing Gear: Increased boat traffic and construction activities bring the risk of damage to fishing gear, which further impacts the sustainability of fishing practices.
Environmental Concerns:
- Habitat Destruction: Crucial ecosystems, such as mangroves and coral reefs, face destruction, which negatively impacts the biodiversity essential for fish populations.
- Pollution Risks: Dredging and construction activities pose pollution risks, potentially harming marine life and compromising water quality.
- Coastal Processes Alteration: The bridge’s presence can alter natural coastal processes, leading to degradation and loss of shoreline.