PAMBAN, April 6: — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the Pamban sea bridge, a key rail link connecting Rameswaram island to mainland Tamil Nadu, and flagged off a new Rameswaram–Tambaram train service.
He also flagged off an Indian Coast Guard vessel that passed beneath the newly constructed bridge — India’s first vertical-lift sea bridge, built at a cost of over ₹550 crore.
“The Pamban bridge is a fusion of modern engineering and India’s rich heritage, enhancing connectivity to Rameswaram, a spiritual hub for millions,” Modi said during the event.
Spanning 2.08 km, the bridge features 99 spans and a 72.5-metre-long vertical lift span capable of rising 17 metres to allow the passage of large vessels, ensuring uninterrupted rail traffic.
Equipped with stainless steel reinforcements, welded joints, and high-grade polysiloxane paint to combat corrosion, the structure is built for longevity in harsh coastal conditions. It stands on 333 piles and 101 piers and is designed to accommodate dual rail tracks for future expansion.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, and state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu were also present at the inauguration.
