Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Pamban sea bridge on April 6, 2025, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. The event included the flag-off of a new train service between Rameswaram and Tambaram (Chennai). Visuals showed the first train crossing the bridge after the official launch. Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard ship passing underneath the bridge.
India’s First Vertical Sea-Lift Bridge
The new Pamban Bridge is the country’s first vertical sea-lift rail bridge, built at a cost of over ₹550 crore. Spanning 2.08 kilometers, it consists of 99 spans and a central 72.5-meter vertical lift span that rises up to 17 meters to allow ships to pass while trains continue operating.
Engineering and Durability Features
The bridge uses stainless steel reinforcements, welded joints, and high-grade polysiloxane paint to resist corrosion in the marine environment. It rests on 333 piles and 101 piers, designed for dual tracks and future expansion. Its construction ensures a lifespan of up to 100 years with safe train speeds up to 80 kmph.
Replacement for 108-Year-Old British-Era Bridge
The new structure replaces the old Pamban bridge, which was built in 1914 by the British and served for more than a century before being decommissioned in December 2022.
Project Oversight and Safety Approvals
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a public sector enterprise, handled the bridge’s planning and construction. Following initial concerns from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), a high-level committee including experts from RDSO, IIT-Roorkee, and the Railway Board confirmed the bridge’s safety. Though capable of handling speeds up to 160 kmph, a curvature near Rameswaram limits operational speed to 80 kmph.
Officials Present at Inauguration
Dignitaries at the event included Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, and state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu. Modi was welcomed by leaders including Union Minister L Murugan and BJP Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai.
