Since the inauguration of Atal Setu in Mumbai, an impressive 21.8 km long sea bridge, nearly 80,000 vehicles have utilized the link road. However, a concerning trend has emerged as the world-class infrastructure has become a hotspot for selfie enthusiasts, leading to safety hazards.
Despite restrictions on stopping vehicles midway on the sea bridge, numerous motorists have been spotted not only parking their vehicles but also climbing railings to take selfies. The over-enthusiastic behavior has prompted the Mumbai Police to issue a warning on social media, threatening strict actions against those violating the rules.
Late Monday evening, in a message on social media platform X, the Mumbai Police addressed the issue, stating, “We agree Atal Setu is definitely a watch, but it is also illegal to stop on it and click photos.” The police further warned motorists, saying, “You will face an FIR if you stop on MTHL.”
Numerous viral photos and videos depict people stopping on the bridge to take selfies, disregarding the rules and regulations. Despite the minimum one-way toll on the sea bridge, which links Sewri in Mumbai to Chirle in Raigad, being ₹250, and the prohibition on stopping vehicles, social media is filled with content showing individuals risking safety for the sake of fun.
Expressing concern over this careless behavior, social media users have criticized the motorists for risking their lives for the sake of selfies. Some users highlighted the need for education on road safety and etiquette, expressing disappointment in the lack of discipline and civic sense.
While Mumbai Police has banned motorcycles, tractors, auto-rickshaws, mopeds, animal-pulled carts, and other slow-moving vehicles on the sea bridge, there have been reports and photographs circulating on social media suggesting violations of these restrictions. Some users sarcastically commented on the lack of adherence to road safety norms, sharing images of an auto-rickshaw and motorcycles on the bridge.
Additionally, videos circulating on the internet have shown couples crossing the bridge ladder to reach a viewing platform, raising concerns about potential safety hazards and violations.
The warning from Mumbai Police underscores the importance of adhering to traffic rules and safety guidelines on major infrastructure projects like Atal Setu. The authorities are keen on ensuring that the sea bridge serves its intended purpose of providing efficient transportation while minimizing risks associated with irresponsible behavior.