Rameswaran, Apr 6 (UNI) Marking a historic milestone Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed iconic Pamban Bridge connecting the Rameswaram Island and the mainland on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.
He also flagged off a new train service between Rameswaram and Tambaram and launched various new projects.
Mr Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard Ship as the Vertical Lift Span of the Bridge rises up to make way.
In this historic moment, the Prime Minister remotely operated the vertical lift mechanism of the bridge from Pamban itself and flagged off the inaugural special of Rameswaram- Tambaram Express and a Coast Guard ship marking the inauguration of the new Bridge and its vertical lift span, the first of its kind in the country.
Connecting Rameswaram to the mainland, the Pamban Bridge not only enhances transportation but also places Indian engineering marvel on the global stage and serves as both a vital transport link and a cultural symbol.
As per the Ramayana, Lord Ram initiated the construction of a bridge to Sri Lanka from Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram. The old Pamban Bridge once served as a crucial link for pilgrims traveling to the Pamban Island.
Now, with advanced technology, the new Pamban Bridge offers greater convenience and an enriching spiritual experience.
Built at a cost of over Rs 550 crore, this is India’s first vertical sea-lift bridge.
Spanning 2.08 kms, the 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.
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.
As part of the New Pamban Bridge inauguration, the Prime Minister also flagged off the inaugural special of Rameswaram–Tambaram Express, enhancing rail connectivity between the sacred town of Rameswaram and Chennai’s Tambaram.
The Rameswaram–Tambaram Express will connect key destinations across Tamil Nadu, linking Rameswaram, Ramanathapuram, Paramakudi, Manamadurai, Sivaganga, Karaikudi, Aranthangi, Pattukkottai, Thiruthuraipoondi, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, Chidambaram, Tiruppadiripuliyur, Villupuram, Chengalpattu, and Tambaram.
This route enhances accessibility between southern and northern Tamil Nadu, catering to pilgrims, tourists, and daily commuters.
Apart from the new Pamban Bridge, the Prime Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several transformative road projects in Tamil Nadu including Foundation Stone laid for 4 Laning of Walajahpet / Ranipet – Tamil Nadu / Andhra Pradesh Border Section of NH-40 and dedicated to the Nation road projects that included 4 Laned Viluppuram – Puducherry Section of NH-332, four- Laned Poondiyankuppam – Sattanathapuram Section of NH-32, 4-laned Cholapuram – Thanjavur Section of NH-36.
These road projects executed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH), will significantly contribute to the economic and infrastructural advancement of Tamil Nadu, fostering improved connectivity, tourism, and regional development.
