The Sudarshan Setu, formerly known as the Okha-Beyt Dwarka Signature Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge located in Gujarat, India. It connects the Beyt Dwarka island in the Gulf of Kutch to Okha on the mainland. The bridge spans a total length of 2,320 metres and was inaugurated on 25 February 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Sudarshan Setu is India’s longest cable-stayed bridge and boasts a unique design that features a footpath adorned with verses from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and images of Bhagwan Krishna on both sides. The bridge also has solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, generating one megawatt of electricity. Before the bridge’s construction, pilgrims had to rely on boat transport to reach Beyt Dwarka, but now the bridge will ease transportation and significantly reduce the time of devotees traveling between Dwarka and Beyt-Dwarka.
The construction of the Sudarshan Setu is a significant development for the region, as it will improve connectivity and infrastructure in the area, which will, in turn, boost tourism. The bridge’s inauguration is a testament to India’s commitment to development and progress, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy.
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Design and Architecture of Sudarshan Setu
The Sudarshan Setu, formerly known as the Okha-Beyt Dwarka Signature Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Gulf of Kutch and connects the Beyt Dwarka island and Okha on the mainland. The bridge was constructed by SP Singla Construction Pvt Ltd at a cost of ₹ 979 crore (US$120 million) and was opened on 25 February 2024 [1].
Cable-Stayed Structure
The Sudarshan Setu is a cable-stayed bridge with a total length of 2,320 metres (7,612 ft) and a width of 27.2 metres (89 ft). The bridge has 34 piers in water and is designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 260 km/h. The bridge’s cable-stayed structure consists of two 170 metre (558 ft) tall A-shaped composite pylons that support the bridge deck through 120 stay cables.
A-Shaped Composite Pylons
The A-shaped composite pylons of the Sudarshan Setu are made of steel and reinforced with concrete. They are designed to withstand the high wind loads and seismic forces that the bridge may experience during its lifetime. The pylons are also designed to be aesthetically pleasing and have been constructed to resemble the Sudarshan Chakra, a weapon of Lord Vishnu.
Composite Steel-Reinforced Concrete
The bridge deck of the Sudarshan Setu is made of composite steel-reinforced concrete. The deck is designed to be lightweight and strong, allowing it to withstand the stresses of traffic and high winds. The use of composite materials also helps to reduce the overall weight of the bridge, which in turn reduces the amount of material required for construction and lowers the cost of the bridge.
Overall, the design and architecture of the Sudarshan Setu is a testament to India’s engineering and construction capabilities. The use of innovative materials and design elements has resulted in a bridge that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-stayed bridge, has had a significant economic and cultural impact on the region. The bridge connects Okha to Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat, and serves as a symbol of progress and cultural heritage.
Boost to Local Tourism
One of the major economic impacts of the Sudarshan Setu is the boost to local tourism. The bridge has made it easier for tourists to visit the region and explore its cultural heritage. The Dwarkadhish Temple, one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites, is located in Dwarka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and is mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita. The temple attracts a large number of pilgrims and devotees every year, and the Sudarshan Setu has made it easier for them to visit the temple.
Cultural Heritage Preservation
The Sudarshan Setu has also played an important role in preserving the cultural heritage of the region. The bridge is not only a symbol of progress, but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat. The bridge has been designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape, and its architecture reflects the local culture. The bridge has become an important landmark in the region, and has helped to raise awareness about the cultural heritage of Gujarat.
In conclusion, the Sudarshan Setu has had a significant economic and cultural impact on the region. The bridge has boosted local tourism and helped to preserve the cultural heritage of Gujarat. The Sudarshan Setu is a testament to the progress and cultural heritage of India, and promises a brighter future for the region.
Construction and Features of Sudarshan Setu
Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-stayed bridge, was constructed by SP Singla Construction Pvt Ltd and executed by Larsen & Toubro over a period of six years. The construction of the bridge began in 2017 and was inaugurated in 2024. The bridge, spanning an impressive 2.32 km, connects Dwarka in Gujarat to the island of Bet Dwarka.
Foundation and Spans
The bridge features a central double-span cable-stayed portion measuring 900 meters, showcasing impressive engineering techniques and adding an aesthetic flair. The deck is made of composite steel-reinforced concrete with two carriageways. The total width of the bridge is 27.2 metres (89 ft), with two lanes in each direction and a 2.5 metres (8 ft)-wide footpath on each side. The foundation of the bridge consists of 56 piles, each 2.5 meters in diameter, that were drilled up to a depth of 80 meters below the sea level.
Solar Panels Integration
Sudarshan Setu features solar panels integrated into the bridge structure to generate electricity. The panels are installed on the roof of the toll plaza and the bridge’s steel pylons. The solar panels have a capacity of 1.4 MW, which can generate approximately 1.6 million units of electricity per year. This integration of solar panels into the bridge structure is a significant step towards sustainable infrastructure development.
Footpaths and Accessibility
The bridge features 2.50-metre-wide pedestrian footpaths on both sides adorned with verses from Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita and images of Lord Krishna, giving it cultural identity representing Dwarka’s historical significance. The footpaths are designed to provide a safe and comfortable walking experience for pedestrians. The bridge also features accessibility ramps for persons with disabilities.
Overall, Sudarshan Setu is a remarkable feat of engineering and a significant investment in the nation’s infrastructure. The integration of solar panels and the provision of footpaths and accessibility ramps make it an example of sustainable and inclusive infrastructure development.
Strategic Importance
The Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-stayed bridge, has great strategic importance for the country. The bridge connects the Okha port on the mainland with the Beyt Dwarka Island off the coast of Gujarat, providing all-weather road connectivity to the island.
Connectivity and Transportation
The Sudarshan Setu has significantly improved the connectivity and transportation between the mainland and the island. Before the construction of the bridge, the only way to reach the island was by ferry, which was not a reliable mode of transportation. The bridge has made it possible for vehicles and pedestrians to travel to and from the island with ease. This has not only made it easier for the locals to commute but has also boosted tourism in the region.
Infrastructure Development Initiatives
The construction of the Sudarshan Setu is a part of the Indian government’s infrastructure development initiatives. The bridge has been built at a cost of around Rs 980 crore and is a significant investment in the region’s infrastructure. The project was undertaken by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, under the leadership of Nitin Gadkari.
The bridge is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the infrastructure of the country. The Sudarshan Setu is not only the longest cable-stayed bridge in India but is also a symbol of the country’s engineering prowess. The bridge has been designed to withstand strong winds and earthquakes, making it a safe and reliable mode of transportation.
In conclusion, the Sudarshan Setu has brought about a significant change in the region’s connectivity and transportation. The bridge is a testament to the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and has boosted the region’s economy.
Which company is responsible for the construction of Sudarshan Setu?
Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-stayed bridge, was constructed by SP Singla Construction Pvt Ltd and executed by Larsen & Toubro over a period of six years.
How long is Sudarshan Setu?
Sudarshan Setu is 2.32 km long and is the longest cable-stayed bridge in India. It connects Okha mainland to Beyt Dwarka, enhancing accessibility for pilgrims visiting the revered Dwarkadhish Temple.
Sudarshan Setu spans which sea?
Sudarshan Setu spans the Gulf of Kutch in the Arabian Sea, connecting Okha on the mainland to Beyt Dwarka Island in Gujarat.
What is the significance of Sudarshan Setu in civil engineering examinations like the UPSC?
Sudarshan Setu is a significant landmark in the field of civil engineering and infrastructure development in India. It is an important topic for civil engineering aspirants appearing for competitive exams like the UPSC. The construction of this cable-stayed bridge required advanced engineering techniques and innovative design solutions, making it a valuable case study for students and professionals alike.