Rameswaram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday inaugurated the Pamban sea bridge, providing a rail link between Rameswaram Island and the mainland and flagged off the new Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai) train service here.
The PM also flagged off a Coast Guard ship, which passed under the bridge.
The bridge is all set to improve connectivity to this spiritual destination flocked by devotees from across the country. Built at a cost of over Rs 550 crore, this is India’s first vertical sea-lift bridge.
Spanning 2.08 kilometers, the bridge comprises 99 spans and a 72.5-meter-long vertical lift span that can be raised up to 17 meters, allowing the smooth passage of large ships while ensuring seamless train operations.
The bridge features stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade paint, and fully welded joints, enhancing durability while reducing maintenance requirements.
Its foundation is supported by 333 piles and 101 piers/pile caps, designed for dual rail tracks and future expansion. The use of polysiloxane paint protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh marine environment. This bridge is a remarkable blend of tradition and technology.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, TN Governor R N Ravi, and State Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu, among others, were present.
On his arrival from Sri Lanka, Modi was accorded a warm welcome by Ravi, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thenarasu, Union Minister of State L Murugan, BJP Tamil Nadu unit chief K Annamalai, and senior BJP leaders, including H Raja and Vanathi Srinivasan.
PTI
