JNS I Gujrat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated ‘Sudarshan Setu’, the country’s longest cable-stayed bridge spanning 2.32 km, on the Arabian Sea. The bridge connects Beyt Dwarka Island to mainland Okha in Gujarat’s Devbhumi Dwarka district.
Starting his day with prayers at the Lord Sri Krishna temple on Beyt Dwarka, PM Modi later unveiled the four-lane cable-stayed bridge, which boasts a unique design. The structure includes a footpath adorned with verses from the Srimad Bhagavad Gita and images of Lord Krishna on both sides.
The bridge, spanning a total of 2.5 kilometres, holds immense significance for both local residents and pilgrims visiting the revered Dwarkadhish Temple. Featuring four lanes and a width of 27.20 meters, the bridge also includes 2.50-meter-wide footpaths on each side. Initially known as the ‘Signature Bridge’, it has now been officially renamed ‘Sudarshan Setu’ or Sudarshan Bridge.
The construction of the bridge was initiated by the Central Government in 2017, marked by a groundbreaking ceremony. Its primary aim is to simplify access for devotees travelling between Okha and Bet Dwarka, who previously relied on boat transport to reach the Dwarkadhish Temple in Beyt Dwarka.
One of the most striking features of the Signature Bridge is its design, with a footpath adorned with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and images of Lord Krishna, providing a unique experience for visitors.
Additionally, the bridge holds the distinction of being India’s longest cable-stayed bridge, with solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, generating one megawatt of electricity.
Located near the Okha port, Beyt Dwarka is approximately 30 km from Dwarka town, which is home to the famous Dwarkadhish temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Previously, devotees visiting the temple at Beyt Dwarka could only travel during the day by boat.
However, the completion of the bridge now allows for round-the-clock access, greatly enhancing connectivity for pilgrims and tourists alike.
