In the annals of India’s infrastructure history, Gujarat’s Sudarshan Setu proudly holds the title of India’s longest cable-stayed bridge. On Feb 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s longest cable-stayed bridge in Dwarka, Gujarat. The bridge extends approximately 2.32 kilometres between Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat.
India’s Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge, Sudarshan Setu
Delighted to inaugurate Sudarshan Setu today – a bridge that connects lands and people. It stands vibrantly as a testament of our commitment to development and progress. pic.twitter.com/G2eZEsa7EY
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 25, 2024
Sudarshan Setu has a distinct design, with a walkway ornamented with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and images of Lord Krishna on both sides. The four-lane 27.20 metre wide bridge has 2.50 metre wide footpaths on each side. PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the 2.3-kilometer-long bridge in October 2017, stating that it will connect old and new Dwarka. The bridge has enormous significance for devotees who attend the Dwarkadhish Temple.
The bridge also features solar panels that generate one kilowatt of electricity. This groundbreaking infrastructure not only enhances transportation but also shortens the travel time for pilgrims who were previously reliant on boats. Sudarshan Setu is expected to be a prominent tourist destination in Devbhumi Dwarka.
Earlier, the Bandra-Worli Sea Link is the most popular cable-stayed bridge and the first cable-stayed bridge built in open oceans in India.
Also Read: Watch: 1st & Exclusive Look Of Mumbai Trans Harbour Link Road As Kamiya Jani Takes You For A Drive
Facts About This New Bridge
An infrastructural marvel in Gujarat…here is why the Sudarshan Setu is exceptional! pic.twitter.com/aiRPKJx0ri
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2024
Beyond its physical presence, Sudarshan Setu symbolises progress and connectivity. This engineering marvel comes with its share of unique facts:
- Sudarshan Setu earlier known as ‘Signature Bridge’.
- The bridge, built at a cost of approximately ₹ 980 crore, is a huge investment in national infrastructure.
- Its entire width is 27.2 meters (89 feet), with two lanes in each direction.
- The Setu addresses pilgrims’ transportation issues, providing easier and more accessible access to Beyt Dwarka. Previously, devotees relied on boats, which limited their mobility during the daytime.
- Sudarshan Setu proposes to help around 8,500 residents of Beyt Dwarka island and accommodate approximately two million pilgrims who visit temples in the area. Dwarka once thrived at the confluence of the Gomti River and the Arabian Sea. Then, it was described as nothing short of a golden metropolis.
- The sidewalks on both sides of the bridge, which are 2.5 meters (8 feet) wide, are decorated with words from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and images of Lord Krishna, adding a distinct cultural touch.
- Advanced technologies have been integrated into its design to minimise its ecological footprint. The bridge includes the installation of solar panels.
So, are you excited to travel on this bridge?
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons
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