Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewari-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu on Friday, marking the unveiling of India’s longest bridge in Maharashtra. The ceremony saw the presence of Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This remarkable structure also claims the title of being the country’s longest sea bridge, boasting a length of 21.8 kilometers with six lanes, comprising 16.5 kilometers over the sea and 5.5 kilometers over land.
The Atal Setu, built at a cost exceeding Rs 17,840 crore, aims to enhance connectivity to Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport. Additionally, it is poised to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune, Goa, and South India. The foundation stone for this monumental project was laid by the Prime Minister in December 2016, emphasizing its strategic importance in bolstering connectivity between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.
In his address on National Youth Day, Prime Minister Modi, who is on a one-day visit to Maharashtra, highlighted the pivotal role of India’s youth in driving the nation’s development across various sectors. Speaking at the 27th National Youth Festival at Tapovan Ground in Nashik, he urged the youth to prioritize local products and shun substance abuse. Reflecting on the wisdom of figures like Sri Aurobindo and Swami Vivekananda, the Prime Minister stressed the need for independent thinking among the youth for India to achieve its goals. The day’s events underscored the government’s commitment to empowering the youth and fostering national progress.