Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the New Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, marking the opening of India’s first vertical lift sea bridge. The ceremony coincided with the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. Additionally, the Prime Minister flagged off a new train service connecting Rameswaram and Tambaram.
The New Pamban Bridge, spanning approximately 2.07 kilometres, connects the town of Mandapam on the mainland to Rameswaram on Pamban Island. This engineering marvel features a 72-metre-long vertical lift section, allowing ships up to 42 metres in height to pass through. The bridge is constructed parallel to the old Pamban Bridge, which was opened in 1914 and had served as a critical link for over a century.
Construction of the new bridge commenced in February 2020, with the aim of replacing the aging structure that had faced several overhauls and challenges over the years. The project was completed in September 2024, and trial runs were conducted in October 2024. The bridge stands approximately 12.5 metres above sea level, which is about 3 metres higher than the old bridge, providing improved clearance for maritime traffic.
The inauguration of the New Pamban Bridge is expected to significantly enhance connectivity to Rameswaram, a prominent pilgrimage and tourist destination. The bridge’s design includes 100 spans of 20 metres each, along with the vertical lifting span, facilitating the movement of both rail and maritime traffic. The vertical lift mechanism is a first in India, showcasing the country’s advancements in infrastructure development.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the bridge’s strategic importance in boosting regional development and tourism. He stated, “The New Pamban Bridge is a testament to India’s engineering prowess and commitment to enhancing connectivity in the region.”
In addition to the bridge inauguration, the Prime Minister flagged off a new train service between Rameswaram and Tambaram . This service aims to improve rail connectivity between the southern regions of Tamil Nadu and the state capital, facilitating easier travel for pilgrims and tourists alike.
The introduction of this train service is part of a broader initiative to enhance rail infrastructure in the region. Southern Railway has been focusing on launching new services and upgrading existing ones to meet the growing demand for efficient transportation.
The New Pamban Bridge and the Rameswaram-Tambaram train service are expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy by promoting tourism and facilitating trade. The bridge’s modern design and the new train service underscore the government’s commitment to infrastructure development in Tamil Nadu.
Local residents and business owners have expressed optimism about the potential benefits of these developments. Many believe that improved connectivity will lead to increased tourist footfall, thereby boosting local businesses and creating employment opportunities.
The New Pamban Bridge replaces the old Pamban Bridge, which had been a vital link since its opening in 1914. The old bridge faced several challenges over the years, including damage from cyclones and corrosion. In December 2022, rail transportation on the old bridge was suspended due to significant weakening of the bascule section. The completion of the new bridge addresses these challenges, providing a more robust and reliable connection to Pamban Island.
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