Rameswaram: On the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the country’s first vertical lift bridge on Sunday. This new Pamban Bridge located in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu is not only a symbol of technological marvel, but also a historic step to connect the land of the mythical Ram Setu with main India. Built at a cost of Rs 535 crore, this bridge is a sample of modern technology, which will facilitate rail and sea traffic simultaneously. With the inauguration on this special occasion, the country has got a path to new possibilities.

New identity to Rameswaram

The Pamban Bridge connects Rameswaram and Dhanushkodi to the mainland of Tamil Nadu. The old Pamban Bridge was closed in 2022, after which this new project started in 2019 has now taken shape. Designed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), this 2.08 km long bridge is the country’s first vertical lift bridge. Its biggest feature is that it will work both upwards for trains and downwards for ships. At the inauguration, PM Modi said, “This bridge is not just a structure of steel and concrete, but a symbol of our faith and progress.” What is its specialty? The new Pamban Bridge is in the news for its advanced technology and design. It rests on 35 meter high pillars and its vertical lift part is 72.5 meters long and weighs 640 tons. This part can automatically rise up to 17 meters for the ships to pass. It used to take 45 minutes to lift the old bridge, but the new bridge will do this work in just five and a half minutes. Railway engineer Ramesh Verma explains, “This technology will save time as well as make marine traffic easier.” Apart from this, stainless steel, special paint and durable material have been used in the bridge, which will keep it strong for a century. Trains will be able to run on it at a speed of 75 kmph, which will further strengthen Rameswaram’s connectivity with the mainland.

A journey from old to new

The old Pamban Bridge, which was built in 1914, was an engineering marvel of its time. But over time, its condition deteriorated and it had to be closed. The new bridge has replaced it, becoming a confluence of modernity and tradition. Shankar Muthu, a local resident of Tamil Nadu, says, “The old bridge was a part of our memories, but the new bridge is our future. Now travel will be easy and safe.” This bridge will also bring Sri Lanka closer, which is just 12 nautical miles away.

Economic and cultural importance
This bridge is not just a structure, but also a means of economic development and cultural connection. Rameswaram, which is one of the four dhams of Hindus, will now open new possibilities for tourism and business with better connectivity. Tourism expert Anita Sharma says, “This bridge will prove to be a boon for pilgrims and tourists. It will also boost the local economy.” Also, fishermen and traders will get relief through the sea route.

Excitement on social media

The news of the inauguration has spread on social media. People are calling it ‘Ram’s gift’ on the occasion of Ram Navami. A user wrote, “This bridge of Rameshwaram is a union of our technical strength and faith. A proud moment!” This enthusiasm shows that this project has made a special place in the hearts of the people.

The path of the future

The new Pamban Bridge will not only connect Rameshwaram, but will also give new heights to the infrastructure of the country. This technology will also become an example for other coastal areas in the future. Will it write a new story of India’s development? This question is in the mind of every person who is reading this news. This gift received on Ram Navami is a unique confluence of faith and modernity, which will inspire the coming generations.

Note: This article is based on the inauguration and technical information of the bridge.