Mumbai:- In a tragic first on Mumbai’s newly inaugurated Atal Setu (Mumbai Trans Harbour Link), a 43‑year‑old female doctor identified as Dr. Kinjal Kantilal Shah reportedly ended her life by leaping into the Arabian Sea. The incident has triggered an extensive search operation by police and rescue teams.
What happened: On Monday afternoon, Dr. Shah left her Parel residence — telling family she had to run an errand — and hired a taxi. CCTV footage shows her being dropped at the bridge’s mid‑point, where she stepped out, walked a few paces, and jumped into the sea .
Emergency response: The taxi driver alerted police immediately. Navi Mumbai authorities, together with coastal police, fishermen, local villagers, and rescue boats, initiated search operations that have continued for days, but as of now, no body has been recovered .
Suicide note: Investigators recovered a note at her home in which Dr. Shah expressed her intention to end life at Atal Setu. In it, she cited a prolonged eight‑ to ten‑year struggle with severe depression and made clear that no one else was to be held responsible .
Context & bridge background: Atal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge, was inaugurated in January 2024. Stretching over 21 km and connecting South Mumbai to Navi Mumbai, this marks the first such suicide attempt since its opening .
Key Takeaways
Mental health crisis alert: Dr. Shah’s decade-long battle highlights the profound challenges many silently face with depression, despite undergoing treatment.
Safety concerns: Authorities may now reassess safety protocols and monitoring systems along the bridge, given this first fatal incident.
Need for support: Her case renews calls for better mental health resources and early intervention measures.
