Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on April 6, 2025, inaugurated the newly constructed Pamban Bridge, marking a significant milestone in India’s railway infrastructure. This 2.08-kilometer structure, stretching across the Palk Strait, is the country’s first vertical-lift sea bridge, connecting the island of Rameswaram to the Indian mainland. The bridge replaces the 110-year-old Pamban Bridge, decommissioned in 2022 due to age and maintenance challenges.
The inauguration followed a successful trial run conducted prior to the event. During the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi remotely operated the bridge’s vertical lift mechanism, showcasing its 72.5-metre central span that can rise 17 metres to allow large vessels to pass underneath. He also flagged off the inaugural Rameswaram–Tambaram Express train and a Coast Guard ship, officially launching the bridge into service. The new structure stands three metres taller than its predecessor, enabling smaller ships to navigate without requiring the lift to be raised.
Constructed at an estimated cost of INR 550 crore, the Pamban Bridge features 99 spans and is designed for durability in the harsh marine environment. It incorporates stainless steel reinforcements and a polysiloxane coating to combat corrosion, along with fully welded joints to ensure structural strength and reduce long-term maintenance needs. Supported by 333 piles and 101 pile caps, the bridge’s dual-track design accommodates both heavy freight traffic and semi-high-speed trains, such as the Vande Bharat Express, preparing it for future rail demands.
The original Pamban Bridge, operational for over a century, was a critical link for trade and pilgrimage between Rameswaram and the mainland. However, corrosion and increasing upkeep costs prompted its replacement, with the foundation stone for the new bridge laid in 2019.
Also read: From Assam to Arunachal, Centre approves new highway to boost connectivity
As part of his visit to Rameswaram, Prime Minister Modi will offer prayers at the Ramanathaswamy Temple, a significant spiritual site on the island. He will also lay the foundation stones for road and rail projects valued at over Rs 8,300 crore, aimed at improving connectivity and fostering development across Tamil Nadu.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw hailed the bridge as a testament to Indian engineering and Tamil heritage. He highlighted its role in honoring the state’s culture, language, and history while advancing railway capabilities.
The Pamban Bridge’s opening has been met with optimism for its potential to boost tourism, trade, and mobility in Tamil Nadu. With its cutting-edge design and strategic importance, the structure bridged tradition with progress on India’s southeastern coast.
Also read: Why are airplane windows round instead of square?
The inauguration followed a successful trial run conducted prior to the event. During the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi remotely operated the bridge’s vertical lift mechanism, showcasing its 72.5-metre central span that can rise 17 metres to allow large vessels to pass underneath. He also flagged off the inaugural Rameswaram–Tambaram Express train and a Coast Guard ship, officially launching the bridge into service. The new structure stands three metres taller than its predecessor, enabling smaller ships to navigate without requiring the lift to be raised.
Constructed at an estimated cost of INR 550 crore, the Pamban Bridge features 99 spans and is designed for durability in the harsh marine environment. It incorporates stainless steel reinforcements and a polysiloxane coating to combat corrosion, along with fully welded joints to ensure structural strength and reduce long-term maintenance needs. Supported by 333 piles and 101 pile caps, the bridge’s dual-track design accommodates both heavy freight traffic and semi-high-speed trains, such as the Vande Bharat Express, preparing it for future rail demands.
Also read: From Assam to Arunachal, Centre approves new highway to boost connectivity
As part of his visit to Rameswaram, Prime Minister Modi will offer prayers at the Ramanathaswamy Temple, a significant spiritual site on the island. He will also lay the foundation stones for road and rail projects valued at over Rs 8,300 crore, aimed at improving connectivity and fostering development across Tamil Nadu.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw hailed the bridge as a testament to Indian engineering and Tamil heritage. He highlighted its role in honoring the state’s culture, language, and history while advancing railway capabilities.
The Pamban Bridge’s opening has been met with optimism for its potential to boost tourism, trade, and mobility in Tamil Nadu. With its cutting-edge design and strategic importance, the structure bridged tradition with progress on India’s southeastern coast.
Also read: Why are airplane windows round instead of square?
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