India's First Vertical Lift Railway Sea Bridge: PM Modi To Inaugurate 2.07 Km 'New Pamban Bridge' In Tamil Nadu Tomorrow

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the New Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami on Sunday (6 April).

This cutting-edge bridge aims to transform connectivity between Rameswaram Island and mainland India, enhancing both maritime and rail transport.

The New Pamban Bridge, spanning 2.07 kilometers over the Palk Strait, is India’s first vertical lift sea bridge.

It is equipped with a 72.5-meter navigational span that can lift up to 17 meters, allowing larger ships to pass underneath without disrupting rail services.

The original Pamban bridge was constructed during the British colonial rule in 1914.

The original Pamban Bridge had a cantilever (a long piece of metal or wood that extends from a wall to support the end of a bridge) structure with a Scherzer Rolling Lift span to connect Rameswaram Island with mainland India.

The bridge served as a critical lifeline for pilgrims, tourists, and trade for over a century.

However, the harsh marine environment and growing transportation demands necessitated a modern solution.

In 2019, the Central government sanctioned the construction of a technologically advanced, future-ready replacement.

According to the Ministry of Railways, the new bridge, constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), blends heritage with innovation.

"The New Pamban Bridge not only preserves the cultural and historical importance of the region but also marks a significant leap forward in design, connectivity, and regional development," the ministry added.

Key Features of the New Pamban Bridge:

• The 72.5-meter navigational span can be lifted up to 17 meters, allowing larger ships to pass underneath.

• The new bridge is 3 meters higher than the existing one, improving sea connectivity.

• The substructure is designed for two tracks, with the superstructure initially accommodating a single line.

• The use of modern materials and engineering techniques will ensure the bridge’s longevity.

• The bridge has been constructed with stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade protective paint, and fully welded joints.

• Special polysiloxane coating protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh marine environment.

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