Atal setu’s bridge, images have emerged of cracks on the service road of the Atal Setu Bridge, the longest sea bridge in the country, located near Mumbai. The bridge, which was inaugurated just six months ago, has raised concerns among commuters and opposition parties, who are questioning the quality of work and alleging corruption.
The cracks, which have appeared on the approach road towards UL in Navi Mumbai, have been downplayed by the government, with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stating that they are only on the approach road and not on the main bridge. However, the opposition is not convinced, and the Congress party has raised concerns about the safety of commuters, particularly with the monsoon season just around the corner.
Concerns Over Commuter Safety
The Atal Setu Bridge is a critical infrastructure project that connects Mumbai to Navi Mumbai, and any defects or weaknesses in the structure could have serious consequences. The cracks on the service road have raised fears that if the road were to collapse during heavy rainfall, it could lead to accidents and even loss of life.
Commuters who use the bridge daily are worried about their safety, and many are planning to alter their travel plans to avoid using the bridge during the monsoon season. The Congress party has alleged that the cracks are a result of substandard work and corruption, and has demanded a thorough investigation into the matter.
Government’s Response
The Maharashtra government has sought to downplay the issue, with officials stating that the cracks are a normal occurrence during the first monsoon season after the construction of a new road. Engineers at the site have reportedly said that the soil settlement during the monsoon season can cause cracks in the tar road. However, this explanation has not convinced the opposition, which is demanding more accountability from the government.
Similar Issues on Other Infrastructure Projects
This is not the first time that concerns have been raised about the quality of infrastructure projects in Mumbai. Recently, leakages were reported on the coastal road, which passes through Marine Drive and the Arabian Sea. The issue was subsequently addressed, but it has raised questions about the quality of work and the ability of the government to deliver large-scale infrastructure projects.
What’s Next?
The issue of the cracks on the Atal Setu Bridge is likely to continue to dominate the headlines in the coming days. The government will need to take concrete steps to address the concerns of commuters and the opposition, and to ensure that the bridge is safe for use. The monsoon season is expected to be intense this year, and any further defects or weaknesses in the bridge could have serious consequences.
In the meantime, commuters are advised to exercise caution while using the bridge, and to plan their travel accordingly. The government must take immediate action to address the issue and ensure that the safety of commuters is not compromised.
