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.

• 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.

News Source: The Hindu