Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, Atal Setu: India’s Infrastructure Milestone
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), officially named the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri–Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, is India’s longest sea bridge. Spanning an impressive 22 kilometers, this engineering marvel connects Sewri in Mumbai to Chirle in Navi Mumbai, significantly cutting down travel time between these two locations. The MTHL is not only the longest sea bridge in India but also ranks as the 10th longest in the world.
A Game-Changer for Mumbai’s Transportation
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link was envisioned nearly three decades ago with the aim of revolutionizing connectivity. The new link slashes the travel time from 2-3 hours to just 20 minutes, making commuting between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai seamless.
The bridge will enhance regional connectivity, benefitting not just Mumbai but also major cities like Goa, Pune, and Nagpur. It features an Open Road Tolling (ORT) system, allowing vehicles to pass through without stopping, ensuring smooth traffic flow. The maximum speed limit on the bridge is 100 kmph, and CCTV surveillance is used to monitor traffic.
The primary goal of Atal Setu is to ease traffic congestion and boost economic growth. With a capacity of 70,000 vehicles daily, the bridge is set to improve logistical efficiency and promote business expansion in the region.
Key Features of Atal Setu (MTHL)
- Number of lanes: Six
- Total length: 22 km (16.5 km over the sea, 5.5 km on land)
- Estimated cost: Rs 17,840 crore
- Connected highways: National Highway 4B and Mumbai-Pune Expressway
- Interchanges: Sewri, Shivaji Nagar, Jassi, and Chirle
- Toll rate: Rs 250 per car for a single trip, Rs 375 for a round trip
- Seismic-resistant design: Built to withstand earthquakes
- First in India to implement Open Road Tolling (ORT)
Mumbai Trans Harbour Link Route and Design
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link begins at Sewri in Mumbai and ends at Nhava Sheva in Navi Mumbai. The bridge features a three-level interchange at Sewri, linking it with the Sewri-Worli connector and the Eastern Expressway. Another interchange at Shivaji Nagar and Chirle ensures smooth traffic distribution on the Navi Mumbai side.
A 4-kilometer-long steel span has been designed to allow uninterrupted movement of ships to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), ensuring that maritime operations remain unaffected.
Project Execution and Packages
The MTHL project is divided into four construction packages:
- Package 1: Sewri to 10.38 km (Marine & Inter-tidal construction) – Larsen & Toubro - IHI Corporation JV
- Package 2: 10.38 km to 18.187 km (Marine construction) – Daewoo E&C - Tata Projects JV
- Package 3: 18.187 km to NH-4B at Chirle (Land construction) – Larsen & Toubro
- Package 4: Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and Toll Management – STRABAG - EFKON India JV
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) awarded the contracts in November 2017, setting a 54-month deadline for completion.
Toll Charges and Collection Plan
The Maharashtra government has finalized toll rates for the MTHL bridge:
- Single trip (car): Rs 250
- Round trip (car): Rs 375
- Monthly pass: Rs 12,500
- Toll collection valid until: 2045
This makes the MTHL one of the most expensive roads to travel in India. However, the time savings and convenience outweigh the cost for many daily commuters.
Impact on Real Estate and Economy
The MTHL bridge is set to boost real estate growth in Navi Mumbai and surrounding areas. Locations like Panvel, Karjat, Kalyan, Dombivli, Ulwe, Airoli, Ghansoli, Vasai, and Ambernath will see increased demand for housing and commercial properties.
Major developers, including Godrej Properties, Arihant Group, and Marathon Group, have already started projects to cater to this expected surge in demand. Enhanced connectivity will also benefit businesses, ensuring quicker transportation of goods and services.
A Milestone in Infrastructure Development
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link is not just a bridge, it’s a symbol of progress. By reducing travel time, easing congestion, and opening new business avenues, Atal Setu is a landmark achievement in India’s infrastructure landscape.
With its cutting-edge design, modern tolling system, and economic impact, this sea bridge is set to shape Mumbai’s future for years to come. The MTHL is more than just a road, it’s a gateway to new opportunities.
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