Sudarshan Setu, also known as the Okha-Beyt Dwarka Signature Bridge, is a recently inaugurated cable-stayed bridge in Dwarka, Gujarat, India. It is officially opened today on February 25, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sudarshan Setu is dedicated to the public after the inauguration by PM Modi.
I had gone to Beyt Dwarka a few years ago. I reached Beyt Dwarka via sea route on an overcrowded boat from Okha port. Moreover, that boat voyage was an unpleasant journey. I’m sure Sudarshan Setu will facilitate pilgrims to reach Beyt Dwarka.
Key Facts of Sudarshan Setu
Here are some key facts about the Sudarshan Setu:
- Length: 2.32 km, making it the longest cable-stayed bridge in India.
- Cost: Approximately Rs. 980 crore.
- Purpose: Connects the mainland town of Okha with Beyt Dwarka island, which was previously accessible only by boat. This will significantly reduce travel time and improve accessibility for pilgrims and tourists visiting the holy city of Dwarka.
- Design:Â Features a visually striking design with steel pylons and cables arranged in a fan-like pattern. The footpath is adorned with verses from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and images of Bhagwan Krishna. Additionally, solar panels are installed on the upper portions of the footpath, generating one megawatt of electricity.
Tourism Boost
The Sudarshan Setu is expected to be a major boost to tourism in the region and is already being hailed as a landmark structure. Moreover, it is a testament to India’s growing infrastructure capabilities.
Here are some additional details that you may find interesting:
The bridge was built by Larsen & Toubro and construction took four years to complete. Furthermore, the bridge is expected to handle around 15,000 vehicles per day. Moreover, the bridge is illuminated at night, creating a spectacular visual display.