India's pioneering vertical lift Pamban Bridge is now complete and is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami on April 6. Spanning 2.08 kilometers over the majestic sea, this bridge connects the sacred Rameswaram Island with the Indian mainland. It's a dual-purpose marvel, featuring both a railway track and a vertical lift mechanism that allows for train transit on top while accommodating large ships sailing beneath.
How the Pamban Bridge Operates
To facilitate smooth maritime traffic, a section of the railway track on the bridge ascends 17 meters, creating a passageway for ships to navigate below. This modern bridge runs parallel to the historic Pamban Bridge, a relic of the British era, which after 110 years has succumbed to rust, leading to its closure in 2022.
The railway initiative culminated in this bridge, crafted at the cost of approximately 531 crore INR, serving as a splendid example of maritime and railway connectivity. It showcases exemplary engineering as India's first vertical lift bridge, with its central section capable of rising by 17 meters, allowing substantial vessels to pass underneath.
Robust Design and Unmatched Construction
The new Pamban Bridge's lift takes a mere 5 minutes and 30 seconds to open, a stark contrast to the 35 to 40 minutes needed for the old bridge's swing. This advancement results in substantial time savings. Constructed using high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology, this bridge is designed to withstand harsh marine conditions and high winds.
Source: aajtak
Should wind speeds exceed 58 km/h, train movement across the track will be halted for safety. Technical specialists working on the bridge assure its durability for over 100 years. Interestingly, the locale of the Pamban Bridge is recognized as the world's second most corrosion-prone area. Addressing this challenge, the bridge is constructed with stainless steel, ensuring it remains corrosion-free.
The lifting girder of the bridge weighs 660 metric tons and is designed for trains traveling at speeds up to 80 km/h. The approved train speed on this track is 75 km/h, allowing trains to maintain reduced speeds for safe passage. With the new bridge operational, an increase in the number of pilgrims visiting Rameswaram for its holy sites is expected, providing enhanced railway amenities.
