Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, on April 6 to celebrate Ram Navami with prayers at the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple. As part of the visit, he will also inaugurate the newly built Pamban Bridge, a modern engineering marvel that replaces the century-old structure connecting the mainland to this holy island.
The new Pamban Bridge is a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development. Spanning over 2.5 kilometers, it was constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) at a cost of ₹535 crore. It replaces the historic 1914 Pamban Rail Bridge, which served as a vital link between Rameshwaram and mainland India for 105 years. Due to severe corrosion, the old bridge was deemed unsafe and decommissioned in December 2022.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has called the new structure “India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge.” Designed to accommodate more traffic and faster trains, it promises improved connectivity and efficiency for the region.
The original Pamban Bridge, a cantilever construction from the early 20th century, stood as a remarkable feat of engineering. However, after enduring over a century of harsh sea conditions, its closure in 2022 marked the end of an era. The new bridge, with its state-of-the-art vertical lift mechanism, is set to enhance durability and functionality while supporting India’s modernization efforts in rail transport.
Local authorities and railway officials have expressed their enthusiasm for the bridge, highlighting its potential to boost tourism and economic activity in Rameshwaram. Easier access to the island will not only uphold its spiritual significance but also contribute to its development.
As the inauguration date approaches, Rameshwaram is gearing up to welcome PM Modi for this historic occasion. With its towering presence over the Palk Strait, the new Pamban Bridge is set to become one of Rameshwaram’s most iconic landmarks.
