Prime Minister Narendra Modi also laid foundation for Rs 370 crore road widening project on the Gadu-Porbandar... Read More

Dwarka: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid foundation stone of the Rs 962 crore cable-stayed bridge connecting Okha and Beyt Dwarka , terming it as a link between old and new Dwarka.

He also announced that country’s first marine police training and research institute would be set up in Devbhoomi Dwarka. Modi began his two-day visit to Gujarat by offering prayers at the Dwarkadhish temple soon after arrival in the morning. He later laid foundation for the cable-stayed bridge and Rs 370 crore road widening project on the Gadu-Porbandar section (93.56km).

The 4.56km-long bridge includes 900m central double span cable-stayed portion, and is expected to be completed in 30 months time. The four-lane 27.20 metre wide bridge will have 2.50 metre wide footpaths on each side. Solar panels installed on the roof of footpath will produce 1 MW power for streetlights on the bridge.

Currently, devotees visiting the Dwarkadhishji temple at Beyt Dwarka travel only during the day by ferry service. Once the bridge is constructed, they can travel any time of the day.

PM said that he experienced new energy and enthusiasm in Dwarka and proposed bridge was a means to reconnect with ancient heritage, which will further boost tourism and generate employment. He recalled how lack of infrastructure led to difficulties and challenges for the people of Beyt Dwarka some years ago.

“Development of the tourism sector cannot happen in isolation. If we want to draw more tourists to Gir, we should also inspire the tourists to visit other nearby places like Dwarka. Building of infrastructure would enhance economic activities and add to the atmosphere of development,” Modi said

Announcing the marine police training and research institute, Modi said, “For the security of our sea coast, the Indian government has been trying to modernise the marine security police. Marine police training and research institute, the first in the country, will be set up in Devbhoomi Dwarka, where policemen from across the country will be trained.

