Rameswaran, Apr 6 (UNI) Marking a historic milestone Prime Minister Narendra Modi

on Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed iconic Pamban Bridge connecting the

Rameswaram Island and the mainland on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.

He also flagged off a new train service between Rameswaram and Tambaram and

launched various new projects.

Mr Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard Ship as the Vertical Lift Span of the Bridge

rises up to make way.

In this historic moment, the Prime Minister remotely operated the vertical lift mechanism

of the bridge from Pamban itself and flagged off the inaugural special of Rameswaram-

Tambaram Express and a Coast Guard ship marking the inauguration of the new Bridge

and its vertical lift span, the first of its kind in the country.

Connecting Rameswaram to the mainland, the Pamban Bridge not only enhances

transportation but also places Indian engineering marvel on the global stage and

serves as both a vital transport link and a cultural symbol.

As per the Ramayana, Lord Ram initiated the construction of a bridge to Sri Lanka

from Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram. The old Pamban Bridge once served as a

crucial link for pilgrims traveling to the Pamban Island.

Now, with advanced technology, the new Pamban Bridge offers greater convenience

and an enriching spiritual experience.

Built at a cost of over Rs 550 crore, this is India’s first vertical sea-lift bridge.

Spanning 2.08 kms, 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.

As part of the New Pamban Bridge inauguration, the Prime Minister also flagged

off the inaugural special of Rameswaram–Tambaram Express, enhancing rail

connectivity between the sacred town of Rameswaram and Chennai’s Tambaram.

The Rameswaram–Tambaram Express will connect key destinations across Tamil

Nadu, linking Rameswaram, Ramanathapuram, Paramakudi, Manamadurai, Sivaganga,

Karaikudi, Aranthangi, Pattukkottai, Thiruthuraipoondi, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai,

Chidambaram, Tiruppadiripuliyur, Villupuram, Chengalpattu, and Tambaram.

This route enhances accessibility between southern and northern Tamil Nadu, catering

to pilgrims, tourists, and daily commuters.

Apart from the new Pamban Bridge, the Prime Minister also inaugurated and laid

the foundation stone for several transformative road projects in Tamil Nadu including

Foundation Stone laid for 4 Laning of Walajahpet / Ranipet - Tamil Nadu / Andhra

Pradesh Border Section of NH-40 and dedicated to the Nation road projects that

included 4 Laned Viluppuram - Puducherry Section of NH-332, four- Laned

Poondiyankuppam - Sattanathapuram Section of NH-32, 4-laned Cholapuram -

Thanjavur Section of NH-36.

These road projects executed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

(MORTH), will significantly contribute to the economic and infrastructural

advancement of Tamil Nadu, fostering improved connectivity, tourism, and

regional development.

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