Following the inauguration of India's longest sea bridge, the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) or Atal Setu, in Navi Mumbai, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a moment to reflect on the pivotal role played by his esteemed associate, the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in bringing the long-pending project to fruition. Expressing gratitude for the collaborative vision shared with Shinzo Abe, PM Modi credited the former Japanese leader for not only conceiving but also actively contributing to the realization of the ambitious project.
During his address after the bridge's inauguration, Prime Minister Modi extended thanks to the Japanese government for its unwavering support throughout the construction process. In his remarks, he fondly remembered Shinzo Abe as a "dear friend" and highlighted the shared commitment both leaders had made to complete the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link project.
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link project, which had languished in uncertainty for an extended period, received a renewed impetus in 2017 when the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) secured a substantial loan of Rs 15,109 crore from the Japan International Cooperation Agency. This financial infusion facilitated the resumption of work on the project in April 2018, marking a significant milestone in its development.
Tragically, Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving Japanese Prime Minister, met an untimely end on July 8, 2022, during a campaign speech in Japan's Nara. In remembrance of the influential leader, Prime Minister Modi attended the state funeral held for Shinzo Abe in September 2022. Reflecting on Shinzo Abe's legacy, PM Modi hailed him as an outstanding leader, a global statesman of great stature, and a staunch advocate for India-Japan friendship. The loss of Shinzo Abe was deeply personal for PM Modi, who described him not only as a visionary but also as a cherished friend.
