Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to bestow a significant gift upon Tamil Nadu this Sunday. On the occasion of Ram Navami, PM Modi will inaugurate India's first vertical lift sea bridge—the new Pamban Bridge—in Rameswaram and flag off a new train service connecting Rameswaram with Tambaram, Chennai. He will also visit the revered Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram. The bridge holds deep cultural significance.
At around 12 PM, PM Modi will officially launch the new Pamban Rail Bridge, witnessing the journey of a train and a ship from the road bridge. By 12:45 PM, he will visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple to pay homage and offer prayers. Around 1:30 PM in Rameswaram, he will lay the foundation for various rail and road projects in Tamil Nadu, worth over 8,300 crore rupees, and dedicate them to the nation. He will also address a public gathering on this occasion.
Stretching 2.08 km, costing over 700 crore rupees
Pamban Bridge—which is more than just steel and concrete—is a stunning example of India's engineering marvels and a bridge of faith leading to the future. Spanning approximately 2.08 km, this bridge cost over 700 crore rupees and proudly connects Rameswaram to mainland India, symbolizing a significant feat on the global platform.
Revamped after 111 years
The dream of India sailing upon the sea becomes reality with the redefined Pamban Bridge. Previously erected in 1914, this bridge was South India's first railway bridge over the sea. Now, after 111 years, it stands renewed, not only connecting but ushering India into a new era.
Seamless passage for large vessels, uninterrupted train operations
Beyond being a mere bridge, it is a commitment—a testament to India's engineering excellence—a vision towards a developed India. The new Pamban Bridge is not just a technical advancement but a new chapter for self-reliant India. It is the first vertical lift railway sea bridge in India, allowing ships to pass beneath it seamlessly. Spanning 2.08 kilometers, it features 99 spans of 18.3 meters and a central lift span of 72.5 meters that rises to 17 meters, allowing larger ships easy passage and facilitating uninterrupted train operations.
The top speed on the bridge is capped at 160 km per hour, with current safety measures at 80 km per hour. Designed to function even in strong winds, the bridge cost 750 crore rupees to complete. According to MP Singh, Director of Rail Development Corporation Limited (RVCNL), it is assured for 100 years of train operations at 80 kilometers per hour, although it is constructed to safely accommodate speeds up to 160 kilometers per hour. Curvature near Rameswaram dictates a safe operational speed of 80 kilometers per hour.
To Prime Minister Modi, this bridge is not merely an infrastructural feat but symbolizes connectivity and devotion in Southern India. Rameswaram, representing one of India's cherished Char Dhams, is now strongly and modernly connected—a milestone in India's dream of advancement by 2047. According to the Ramayana, the construction of Ram Setu began near Dhanushkodi, close to Rameswaram.
The new Pamban Rail Bridge is future-proof, designed to accommodate dual railway tracks. A special polysiloxane coating protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in its harsh sea environment.
What else is Prime Minister Modi announcing?
Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation for a slew of projects in Tamil Nadu worth over 8,300 crore rupees. These projects include the development of a 28-kilometer four-lane section of NH-40 from Walajapet to Ranipet and a 29-kilometer section of NH-332 from Villuppuram to Pondicherry. Meanwhile, a 57-kilometer section of NH-32 from Pondiyankuppam to Sattanathapuram and a 48-kilometer section of NH-36 from Cholapuram to Thanjavur are also set to be enhanced. These highways will facilitate connections between various pilgrimage and tourist destinations, reduce city-to-city travel distances, and ensure swift access to medical institutions and ports. Furthermore, they will empower local farmers to deliver produce to nearby markets and invigorate economic activity in local artisan and small industries.
