Pamban 2.0: India’s first vertical-lift railway bridge to open in Rameswaram

Rameswaram, the historic pilgrimage town known for the Ramanathaswamy Temple, is preparing for a unique Ram Navami celebration this year. On April 6, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the new Pamban Rail Bridge — a state-of-the-art infrastructure project that replaces the century-old sea bridge connecting mainland India to Rameswaram Island.

The new bridge, hailed as a modern engineering marvel, is expected to drastically improve rail connectivity, enhance trade routes, and support tourism in the region. Constructed by the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) under the Ministry of Railways, the project is a testament to India’s infrastructure push in coastal areas.

Key features of the bridge

The new Pamban Rail Bridge spans 2.5 kilometres and has been built at a cost of Rs 535 crore. One of its most notable upgrades is that it stands three metres taller than the original structure, allowing better sea traffic flow underneath.

It also features stainless steel reinforcements and high-grade protective paint to endure the harsh marine environment, ensuring longevity and structural integrity. Most importantly, it now supports faster and heavier trains — increasing train speed capacity from 10 kmph to a robust 75 kmph.

Also watch: Pamban Bridge: A timeless engineering marvel

Vertical lift innovation

A standout feature of the bridge is its 72.5-metre vertical lift span — a portion of the bridge that can rise straight up to 17 metres within just five minutes. This innovation allows large ships to pass underneath, enhancing marine navigation and boosting regional shipping activity.

However, there’s a catch. The lifting mechanism cannot function if wind speeds exceed 58 kmph — a condition frequently encountered between October and February in the region. This feature, though a game-changer, will require operational care and weather monitoring to ensure consistent service.

Why the bridge matters

For Rameswaram, the bridge means a quicker train journey, safer travel, and improved connectivity for pilgrims and tourists alike. It represents a leap forward in coastal infrastructure and engineering, strengthening port access and creating new commercial opportunities across the southern coastline.

The old Pamban Bridge, built in 1914, had served as a vital transport link for over a century. But changing environmental dynamics and rising traffic needs necessitated this bold new upgrade.

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