Atal Bridge becomes Ahmedabad’s top tourist hotspot, generates Rs 27.7 crore in revenue

Ahmedabad’s Atal Bridge, a striking pedestrian structure across the Sabarmati River, has rapidly evolved into one of the city’s most popular attractions, drawing millions of visitors from India and abroad. Since its dedication to the public by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 27, 2022, the bridge has attracted over 77.7 lakh visitors, generating Rs 27.7 crore in revenue for the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC).

According to official figures released by the Gujarat Chief Minister’s Office, the bridge has become a top choice for tourists visiting India’s first UNESCO-designated heritage city. It continues to attract large crowds during festive seasons such as Diwali and summer holidays, contributing significantly to Ahmedabad’s tourism-driven economy.

A blend of design, culture and civic pride

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Constructed and maintained by the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Ltd (SRFDCL), a subsidiary of the AMC, the Atal Foot Over Bridge combines architectural innovation with elements of Gujarati culture. Built at a cost of Rs 74 crore, the bridge’s design draws inspiration from Ahmedabad’s famous kite festival and local craftsmanship, featuring colourful panels and an undulating form that mirrors the flow of the Sabarmati River.

The bridge links the east and west banks of the city, offering panoramic views of the riverfront and skyline. Visitors often describe it as a ‘must-see’ attraction that symbolises Ahmedabad’s transformation from a historic trade hub to a modern urban centre.

Year-on-year rise in visitors and earnings

SRFDCL data show consistent growth in visitor numbers and civic revenue. Between August 31, 2022, and March 2023, the bridge saw 21.62 lakh visitors, generating Rs 6.44 crore. From April 2023 to March 2024, footfall rose to 26.89 lakh, earning Rs 8.24 crore. The following year, between April 2024 and March 2025, 20.67 lakh people visited, bringing in Rs 8.19 crore. From April to October 2025 alone, another 8.51 lakh tourists contributed Rs 4.82 crore.

In total, the bridge has recovered more than 37 per cent of its construction cost within just three years, a notable achievement for a civic infrastructure project primarily meant for recreation and aesthetics.

Showcasing Ahmedabad’s heritage-modernity balance

Officials said the bridge’s success highlights Ahmedabad’s ability to balance heritage preservation with modern infrastructure. The city’s iconic sites — the Gandhi Ashram, Kankaria Lakefront, the Narendra Modi Stadium, and the heritage walk through the old Pols — now share tourist attention with this new architectural landmark.

Under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s leadership, the state government has focused on expanding public attractions that combine urban development with cultural identity. The Atal Bridge stands as a testament to this approach, drawing visitors from across India as well as foreign tourists who seek to experience the city’s evolving skyline.

Model for sustainable urban tourism

Urban planners and civic officials view the Atal Bridge as a model for developing sustainable tourism infrastructure in Indian cities. Its self-sustaining revenue model and rising popularity demonstrate how public architecture can drive both civic pride and local enterprise.