TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY
THE CONTEXT: On February 25, Prime Minister inaugurated the Sudarshan Setu, colloquially known as the Signature Bridge, marking a significant milestone in Gujarat’s infrastructure development.
EXPLANATION:
- The bridge, serving as a sea link, connects the mainland Gujarat to Bet Dwarka island, presenting a key advancement in the region’s connectivity.
Key Features of Sudarshan Setu
- Length: The Sudarshan Setu spans a total length of 4,772 meters, making it Gujarat’s longest cable-stayed bridge.
- Cable-Stayed Section: Featuring a 900-meter-long cable-stayed section, the bridge showcases cutting-edge engineering.
- Four-Lane Structure: Built at a cost of Rs 978 crore, the four-lane bridge aims to enhance transportation efficiency.
- Funding: The Union government provided the financial backing for this ambitious project.
Connecting Bet Dwarka to Mainland Gujarat
- Geographic Significance
- Location: Sudarshan Setu links the Okha town in Devbhumi Dwarka district to Bet Dwarka, an island situated 3 km off Okha.
- Geographical Area: Bet Dwarka, the second-largest island off the Gujarat coast after Diu, spans 36 sq km.
- Transportation: The bridge eliminates the reliance on ferry services, providing all-weather road connectivity between Bet Dwarka and mainland Gujarat.
Religious Tourism Hub
- Cultural and Economic Impact
- Shree Dwarkadhish Mukhya Mandir: Bet Dwarka hosts the prominent Shree Dwarkadhish Mukhya Mandir, a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Tourism Attractions: The island is home to various Hindu temples, a gurudwara, and mosques, making it a pilgrimage destination.
- Economic Activities: Fishing, tourism, and some agricultural pursuits constitute the primary sources of livelihood on the island.
Unique Design and Features
- Architectural Elements
- Pier Support: The bridge is supported by 32 piers, facilitating seven cable-stayed spans of 900 meters each.
- Navigation Section: The structure includes a navigation section allowing the movement of fishing boats to and from the Dalda Bandar harbor.
- Aesthetic Touch: Pillars adorned with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and images of Krishna add a cultural and aesthetic dimension.
- Sustainability: Solar panels form the roof of walkways, showcasing a commitment to sustainable energy.
Contractor Controversy
- Construction Details
- Contractor: The bridge was constructed by S P Singla Constructions Private Limited, based in Panchkula.
- Controversy: The contractor was under scrutiny due to its involvement in the collapse of the Aguwani-Sultanganj Ganga bridge in Bihar. Despite concerns, the Signature Bridge was completed.
Demolitions and Concerns
- Social and Economic Ramifications
- Structural Demolitions: In October 2022, over 100 structures, including homes and religious sites, were demolished on the shoreline of Bet Dwarka for perceived national security threats.
- Impact on Livelihood: Concerns were raised about the impact on ferry boat operators, with predictions of reduced passenger traffic affecting their livelihoods.
Future Developments
- Mitigating Economic Impact
- Fare Regulation: The Gujarat Maritime Board regulates ferry boat fares, and discussions indicate a possible fare increase to Rs 50 to offset the impact on boat operators.
- Diversification: Boat operators exploring alternatives, such as converting boats for dolphin viewing, showcase adaptive strategies in the face of changing circumstances.
Conclusion
- The inauguration of Sudarshan Setu not only marks a significant engineering achievement but also underscores the socio-economic impact on the region. As Gujarat’s longest cable-stayed bridge, it symbolizes progress, connectivity, and cultural significance, paving the way for future developments in the state’s infrastructure landscape. The challenges and controversies surrounding its construction highlight the complexities involved in such transformative projects.