Rameswaram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the New Pamban Bridge across the Palk Strait in Tamil Nadu on Sunday. The bridge – the first vertical lift rail bridge in India – is a technological marvel. The inauguration of the bridge heralded resumption of train services between the Rameswaram Island and Mandapam on the mainland.
After inaugurating the bridge, Modi flagged-off Rameswaram-Tambaram Express. After the train crossed the bridge, the central span was lifted to allow an Indian Coast Guard ship to pass. The leaves of the Old Pamban Bridge were also lifted simultaneously to allow vessels to pass underneath.
Modi, clad in a traditional Tamil Veshti (dhoti) and shirt, was accompanied by Tamil Nadu governor R N Ravi and state finance minister Thangam Thennarasu. Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin said that he had informed the Prime Minister in advance of his inability to be present at the event.
The Prime Minister flew directly to Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, where he was on a three-day visit from Friday. On his way back, he saw the Ram Setu, or Adams Bridge, from his aircraft and shared a video of it on his official ‘X’ handle.
“On the way back from Sri Lanka a short while ago, was blessed to have a Darshan of the Ram Setu. And, as a divine coincidence, it happened at the same time as the Surya Tilak was taking place in Ayodhya. Blessed to have the Darshan of both. Prabhu Shri Ram is a uniting force for all of us. May His blessings always remain upon us,” Modi posted along with the video clip.
Spanning 2.08 km, the New Pamban Bridge comprises 99 spans and a 72.5-meter-long vertical lift span that can be raised up to 17 meters, allowing the smooth passage of large ships while ensuring seamless train operations. It was built by Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd at a cost of over Rs 550 crore.
The bridge features stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade paint, and fully welded joints, enhancing durability while reducing maintenance requirements. Its foundation is supported by 333 piles and 101 piers/pile caps, designed for dual rail tracks and future expansion. The use of polysiloxane paint protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh marine environment. This bridge is a remarkable blend of tradition and technology.
