In a groundbreaking feat of engineering prowess, the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) has emerged as India's longest sea bridge, spanning an impressive 22 kilometers. Completed in under six years, the project stands as one of the most complex mega infrastructure undertakings in the country, seamlessly blending Indian ambition with cutting-edge Japanese construction technology.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) played a pivotal role in the realization of this ambitious project, serving as the principal financier. JICA's involvement went beyond mere financial support; it introduced the Orthotropic Steel Deck (OSD) technology, a game-changer that significantly expedited the bridge's completion.
SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India, revealed, "We also made quite important proposals in terms of the bridge?s design. The Indian government?s original idea was construction through simple PC (Prestressed Concrete) girder bridges. JICA proposed more advanced Japanese girder technology which is robust, resilient enough, light in terms of weight, span is long and you can reduce the number of pillars and shorten construction time.?
Initially planned as a public-private partnership, the project's trajectory took a turn when this approach faced obstacles. JICA stepped in, advising the Government of India and the Maharashtra state government to adopt the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode, coupled with funding from JICA in the form of an Official Development Loan. This shift not only streamlined the process but also integrated advanced Japanese technology into the project.
The OSD technology, championed by JICA, proved to be a game-changer. Compared to conventional concrete or composite girder bridges, OSD bridges boast a lighter self-weight and a stronger structure. This results in the need for fewer and smaller piers, ultimately shortening the construction timeline and minimizing environmental and ecosystem impact. The OSDs were manufactured by Japan?s IHI Infrastructure System, a subsidiary of IHI Corporation, a heavy-industry manufacturer. These components were then assembled at the project site, with a maximum length of 180 meters and a weight reaching around 2,600 metric tonnes.
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link stands not just as a testament to India's infrastructural ambitions but also as a showcase of the synergy between global expertise and local aspirations. With JICA's financial support and innovative technology, the bridge not only connects Mumbai and Navi Mumbai but also establishes a new paradigm for future infrastructure projects in India.
