On the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, PM Modi inaugurated India’s first vertical lift sea bridge in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. Named the Pamban Bridge, this engineering marvel has been constructed at a cost of ₹550 crore.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw accompanied PM Modi during the event. However, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin was notably absent from the ceremony.
The inauguration took place shortly after PM Modi completed his three-day visit to Sri Lanka. Sharing his thoughts on social media platform X, the Prime Minister described the moment as a “divine coincidence,” witnessing the historic Ram Setu while the Surya Tilak ceremony of Lord Ram was simultaneously happening in Ayodhya.
PM Modi Inaugurates New Pamban Bridge
PM Modi inaugurated the newly constructed Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, officially launching India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge.
Stretching 2.07 kilometres across the Palk Strait, the new bridge is designed to improve rail connectivity between Rameswaram Island and mainland India. The grand unveiling coincided with the celebration of Ram Navami, adding spiritual significance to the historic event.
This modern structure replaces the original Pamban Bridge, a cantilever bridge built in 1914 with a Scherzer Rolling Lift span. The old bridge, though iconic, struggled to handle increasing rail traffic and was severely impacted by the corrosive marine environment.
Recognising the need for a more efficient system, the Central Government approved the construction of a new bridge in 2019. Developed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) under the Ministry of Railways, the new Pamban Bridge features advanced engineering to support contemporary transportation needs while honouring the region’s cultural heritage.
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Key Features of the New Pamban Bridge
The new Pamban Bridge, inaugurated by PM Modi in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, stands as a significant milestone in India’s railway and marine infrastructure. Here are its standout features:
- Vertical Lift Mechanism: The bridge includes a 72.5-meter navigational span that can be lifted up to 17 meters, allowing large ships to pass beneath with ease.
- Improved Height and Connectivity: Built 3 meters higher than the original bridge, it enhances sea connectivity while allowing more efficient rail operations.
- Durable Materials: Constructed using stainless steel reinforcements and coated with high-grade protective paint, the bridge is designed to resist corrosion and withstand harsh marine conditions.
- Track Capacity: The substructure is engineered for dual tracks, although the superstructure currently supports a single railway line, with future expansion in mind.
Why the New Pamban Bridge Was Needed
The original Pamban Bridge, constructed in 1914, played a vital role in connecting Rameswaram Island to mainland India. However, over the years, it became inadequate due to:
- Increased Rail Traffic: The old bridge could no longer support the growing number of trains or the heavier loads of modern railway systems.
- Speed Limitations: Slower train speeds and frequent delays led to a need for a more efficient solution.
- Maritime Restrictions: The fixed design of the old structure made it difficult for larger ships to navigate the Palk Strait safely.
- Modern Requirements: The new bridge is tailored to meet current and future transportation demands, offering a smoother, safer, and more sustainable transit option.
Pamban Bridge Construction Techniques and Innovations
The new Pamban Bridge is an example of cutting-edge engineering adapted to a challenging environment:
- Advanced Materials: Builders used corrosion-resistant coatings and stainless steel to extend the bridge’s life in a marine setting.
- Auto Launching Method: To overcome the site’s tough conditions, the lift span was positioned using hydraulic jacking and the Auto Launching Method.
- Precision Engineering: Launching girders (51 meters in front, 47 meters in the rear) with counterweights were used to carefully place the lift span between piers.
Overcoming Challenges During Construction
Building the bridge came with its fair share of obstacles:
- Environmental Factors: The construction team had to manage turbulent sea waters, frequent cyclones, and even seismic activity.
- Remote Location: Transporting heavy equipment and materials to the isolated site was a major logistical challenge.
- Engineering Resilience: Despite the hurdles, the project was completed safely and efficiently, reflecting the commitment and innovation of India’s engineering talent.
A Leap in Infrastructure Development
The new Pamban Bridge isn’t just a transport upgrade, it’s a symbol of India’s advancing infrastructure:
- Global Standards: The bridge is now among world-renowned structures like the Golden Gate Bridge in the US and the Oresund Bridge in Europe.
- Showcase of Engineering Excellence: It demonstrates India’s ability to build complex structures in difficult conditions.
- Long-Term Reliability: With a design lifespan of over 100 years, the bridge is built to serve future generations.
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FAQs
Q.1. What is special about the new Pamban Bridge?
Ans. The new Pamban Bridge is India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, allowing large ships to pass beneath by raising its 72.5-meter span up to 17 meters.
Q.2. Why was the old Pamban Bridge replaced?
Ans. The 1914-built cantilever bridge was unable to handle increasing rail traffic and had suffered structural damage due to the harsh marine environment.
Q.3. Who constructed the new Pamban Bridge?
Ans. The bridge was developed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) under the Ministry of Railways, using advanced materials and engineering techniques.
Q.4. How long is the new Pamban Bridge?
Ans. The new bridge spans 2.07 kilometers across the Palk Strait, connecting Rameswaram Island with mainland India.
Q.5. When was the new Pamban Bridge inaugurated?
Ans. PM Modi inaugurated the bridge on the occasion of Ram Navami, following his return from a three-day visit to Sri Lanka.
