The Atal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge, has witnessed significant traffic volume since its inauguration, with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) reporting that over 50 lakh vehicles have traversed the bridge from its opening on January 13 to August 26 this year.
According to the MMRDA, a total of 50,04,350 vehicles have used the bridge, which connects Sewri in Mumbai with Nhava Sheva in Navi Mumbai. This impressive figure translates to an average of approximately 22,000 vehicles per day over the past 227 days. The diverse traffic includes 47.40 lakh cars, 50,020 mini buses and light motor vehicles, 59,799 double-axle vehicles, 73,074 three-axle vehicles, 80,277 four-to-six axle vehicles, and 503 oversized vehicles.
The bridge was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 12, and opened for public use the following day. The high volume of traffic highlights the bridge’s significant role in alleviating congestion and reducing travel times between South Mumbai and key destinations such as Panvel, Pune, and Navi Mumbai. The bridge has not only streamlined traffic management but also enhanced connectivity to critical locations, including the forthcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
In addition to the bridge’s impact, ongoing infrastructure projects are set to further improve connectivity. The Worli-Sewri elevated road, now 75 per cent complete, is expected to provide a rapid 5-10 minute connection from Worli Seaface to Atal Setu. Additionally, the development of an elevated road between the Chirle Interchange and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway aims to expedite commutes between South Mumbai, the western suburbs, Navi Mumbai, Panvel, Pune, and the Mumbai-Goa Highway. These developments underscore the strategic importance of Atal Setu in Mumbai’s transportation network, enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the city’s growth and development.
