📷 Image Credits: ABP Live
On a recent inspection of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Seva Atal Setu in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole expressed concerns over cracks that have emerged on the newly inaugurated bridge. The Atal Setu, also known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), is India’s longest sea bridge, covering 21.8 km with a significant portion over the sea. The bridge, which was inaugurated earlier this year in January by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sees a daily movement of over 70,000 vehicles.
During his inspection, Patole remarked that the appearance of cracks on the bridge indicated a potential threat to the safety of commuters. He stated, “The cracks denote that the lives of people are in danger,” emphasizing the need for immediate attention to address the structural concerns. The inspection comes amidst heightened scrutiny on infrastructure safety following a recent bridge collapse in Bihar’s Araria district.
In response to Patole’s observations, the Atal Setu Project head, Kailash Ganatra, clarified that the reported cracks were actually on the service road connecting the bridge to the city, not on the main structure. He assured that the minor cracks, attributed to rainy weather, would be remedied promptly to ensure the road’s safety. Patole’s concerns shed light on the significance of maintaining the integrity of critical infrastructure to safeguard public welfare.
The inspection by Nana Patole highlights the importance of proactive measures to address infrastructure safety concerns and ensure the well-being of citizens. With the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Seva Atal Setu serving as a vital link in the region’s transportation network, the need for diligent maintenance and monitoring of such structures is paramount to uphold public safety and confidence in the infrastructure development efforts.