PM Modi Inaugurates Sudarshan Setu, India’s Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge In Gujarat

GUJARAT: Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a significant milestone in Gujarat’s infrastructure development with the inauguration of the Sudarshan Setu, a magnificent four-lane cable-stayed bridge connecting the mainland town of Okha to the sacred island of Beyt Dwarka.

Stretching a remarkable 2.32 kilometers, the bridge features a central, double-span cable-stayed section spanning an impressive 900 meters. An additional 2.45-kilometer-long approach road seamlessly integrates the bridge into the existing network.

This engineering marvel, constructed at a cost of Rs 979 crore, boasts a width of 27.20 meters, offering ample space for four lanes of traffic and two dedicated 2.50-meter-wide footpaths on either side.

Originally known as the Signature Bridge, the structure was rechristened as Sudarshan Setu, signifying a bridge of blessings. This renaming underscores its significance as a vital link to the revered Dwarkadhish temple of Lord Krishna, located on Beyt Dwarka island.

Previously, devotees seeking blessings at the temple were limited to daytime ferry journeys. The completion of the Sudarshan Setu paves the way for round-the-clock accessibility, offering a convenient and all-weather connection to the holy site.

Beyond its religious significance, the bridge holds immense potential for economic and social development in the region.

It is expected to boost tourism, facilitate trade, and improve the overall quality of life for the island’s 8,500 residents and the countless pilgrims who visit annually.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Gujarat extended beyond the bridge inauguration. He also offered prayers at the Dwarkadhish temple and addressed a large gathering, highlighting the bridge’s significance for the region’s future.

The Prime Minister’s Office further announced the inauguration of five All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) campuses across the country, marking another step towards strengthening India’s healthcare infrastructure.