Sudarshan Setu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate Sudarshan Setu – India’s longest cable-stayed bridge – on Sunday, February 25th. This significant infrastructure marvel will connect the Okha mainland to the Beyt Dwarka island in Gujarat. Costing approximately ₹980 crore, Sudarshan Setu, also referred to as the Okha-Beyt Dwarka Signature Bridge, spans an impressive 2.5 kilometers. Its completion marks a momentous occasion for both residents and pilgrims who frequent the revered Dwarkadhish Temple.
Expressing anticipation for the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi took to social media platform X on Saturday, sharing his excitement about the forthcoming projects in Gujarat. “Tomorrow is a special day for Gujarat’s growth trajectory. Among the several projects being inaugurated is the Sudarshan Setu, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. This is a stunning project which will enhance connectivity,” Modi wrote, highlighting the bridge’s transformative impact on regional connectivity and infrastructure development.
Also Read: Live Updates: PM Modi to Inaugurate Sudarshan Setu in Dwarka, Gujarat
The Sudarshan Setu stands as a symbol of progress and connectivity, reflecting the government’s commitment to fostering growth and development across the nation. Its inauguration signifies a significant milestone in Gujarat’s journey towards enhanced accessibility and infrastructure advancement.
Key Features of Sudarshan Setu in Gujarat
The Sudarshan Setu, linking the Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka island, is poised to revolutionize connectivity in the region. Here’s what you need to know about this remarkable infrastructure:
- India’s Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge: The Sudarshan Setu proudly holds the title of India’s longest cable-stayed bridge. Notably, it features solar panels on its upper footpath sections, generating a remarkable one megawatt of electricity.
- Spacious Design: With four lanes and expansive 2.50-meter-wide footpaths on both sides, the bridge ensures smooth passage for commuters and pedestrians alike.
- Inauguration by PM Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for this project in October 2017, underscoring its strategic importance for the region’s development.
- Cost and Funding: Constructed at a cost of ₹978 crore, the Sudarshan Setu signifies a significant investment in enhancing infrastructure and connectivity.
- Cultural Significance: Adorned with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and imagery of Lord Krishna, the bridge pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region, adding a touch of spirituality to its architectural marvel.
- Improved Pilgrimage Experience: Before the bridge’s construction, pilgrims relied on boat transport to reach the revered Dwarkadhish Temple in Beyt Dwarka. The Sudarshan Setu promises to streamline this journey, offering a more convenient and efficient mode of transportation.
- Tourist Attraction: Beyond its functional utility, the Okha-Beyt Dwarka Signature Bridge is poised to become a significant tourist attraction, drawing visitors to marvel at its engineering prowess and scenic views.
- Inauguration and Beyond: Alongside the Sudarshan Setu inauguration, PM Modi will also mark the opening of Gujarat’s first All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rajkot, highlighting the government’s commitment to bolstering healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, the prime minister will inaugurate and lay the groundwork for various projects across different sectors, amounting to a staggering ₹48,000 crore investment in the state’s development.
The Sudarshan Setu stands as a testament to India’s progress and vision for inclusive growth, promising enhanced connectivity, economic opportunities, and cultural preservation for generations to come.
