PM Modi inaugurates India's first vertical lift sea bridge in Tamil Nadu

ANI April 6, 2025 187 views

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated India's first vertical lift sea bridge in Tamil Nadu, marking a significant milestone in infrastructure development. The 2.07-kilometer bridge spans the Palk Strait, replacing the original 1914 structure with advanced engineering capabilities. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi were present during the landmark event. The new bridge not only improves connectivity but also showcases India's technological prowess in maritime infrastructure.

"The resolve of Antyodaya and the spirit of 'Nation First, Always First'" - Ashwini Vaishnaw
Ramanathapuram, April 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the New Pambam Bridge in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, on Sunday.

Key Points

1

First vertical lift sea bridge in India showcasing engineering excellence

2

Connects Rameswaram Island with enhanced maritime connectivity

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Replaces 1914 British-era bridge with modern infrastructure

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Demonstrates India's technological infrastructure capabilities

The 2.07-kilometre-long New Pamban Bridge, spanning the Palk Strait in Tamil Nadu, stands as a testament to India's engineering prowess and visionary infrastructure development.

PM Modi, along with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, flagged off the first train traversing the sea bridge.

A demonstration of the bridge's functionality showcased its capabilities, with visuals from the area capturing key moments-- Indian Coast Guard (ICG) boat successfully navigated under the bridge, highlighting its clearance and waterway accessibility. Following the boat's passage, a train traversed the bridge, demonstrating its structural integrity and rail connectivity.

Earlier today, as Union Minister Vaishnaw raised the BJP flag at the Pambam Bridge, he congratulated the party workers on the party's foundation day.

"The resolve of Antyodaya and the spirit of 'Nation First, Always First'.. Heartfelt congratulations to all workers on the foundation day of the Bharatiya Janata Party," Vaishnaw's post read.

Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi also visited the Swamy temple in Rameswaram ahead of the inauguration of the bridge.

The bridge's story traces back to 1914, when British engineers constructed the original Pamban bridge. 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. However, the new bridge, sanctioned in 2019, is 3 meters higher than the existing one, improving sea connectivity.

The bridge has served as a lifeline for pilgrims, tourists and trade. "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," read the Ministry's statement.

The New Pamban Bridge was constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Railways. RVNL has ensured the bridge met higher speed, load, and maritime requirements. This new bridge enhances connectivity while showcasing India's infrastructure capabilities in safety, durability, and innovation.

While the new Pamban Bridge is India's first vertical lift sea bridge, it shares similarities with other globally recognized bridges known for their technological advancements and unique designs.

The ministry said that these include the Golden Gate Bridge in the United States, Tower Bridge in London, and the Oresund Bridge in Denmark-Sweden.

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
This is such an incredible engineering feat! 🇮🇳 So proud to see India developing world-class infrastructure. The vertical lift mechanism looks fascinating - can't wait to see it in action!
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Rahul M.
While the bridge is impressive, I wish the article had more technical details about the construction challenges. The marine environment must have posed unique difficulties for the engineers.
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Saranya P.
As someone from Tamil Nadu, this bridge means so much for our local economy! Better connectivity = more tourism and trade opportunities. The original Pamban bridge was iconic, but this upgrade was much needed 👏
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Amit S.
The comparison to Golden Gate and Tower bridges might be premature - let's see how this holds up over time. But definitely a step in the right direction for Indian infrastructure!
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Meena R.
Beautiful to see modern engineering blend with our heritage! The original bridge served us for over a century - hope this one lasts even longer with proper maintenance. The photos are stunning!
K
Karthik V.
The BJP flag raising could have been avoided - infrastructure projects should remain non-political. That said, the bridge itself is a remarkable achievement that will benefit all citizens regardless of party affiliation.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Modi New Pamban Bridge Tamil Nadu Infrastructure Railway Development Rameswaram
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