Setu is a Hindi word which implies Bridge. Mahatma Gandhi Setu is a bridge, which was made over the river Ganga or the Ganges. It is also called Gandhi Setu or Ganga Setu. It connects Patna in the south of Bihar and Hajipur in the north of Bihar. It was designed by the Gammon India and constructed by the Gammon India Limited. The project started in 1972 and was completed after almost ten years in 1982. The length of this bridge is 5750metre or 5.75 kilometer.
It is the second longest river bridge in India. It was inaugurated and opened for its public use by the then Prime Minister, Ms. Indira Gandhi in the May of the year 1982. The inauguration event was viewed by thousands of people, which took place in the north end of the bridge in Hajipur. It is connected with National Highway 22 or the NH-22 and the National Highway 31 or the NH-31 and is maintained by the National Highway Authority of India or NHAI. The total expenditure cost was 87.22 crore. It was made to connect the north of the Bihar to the rest of the Bihar and part of National Highway 19 or the NH-19.
In the commemoration of landmark Bridges of India: Mahatma Gandhi Setu, Indian postal department or the IPD, issued a stamp of denomination 500 paise or 5 rupees on seventeenth of August, 2007.
Today, it is very critical condition even before it’s estimated age. But, this bridge attracts people and by-passers because it offers a scenic view of Bihar from the west. At night, the scene becomes even much beautiful. Also, it offers a beautiful and incredible view of a Banana garden, which is beneath the bridge. Most of the people go there to see the garden because many of us don’t get a chance to see a Banana garden in our whole lifespan, and it’s a great place to get this feat.
