New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the newly-built Pamban sea bridge in Tamil Nadu’s Rameswaram district. Just after arriving from his three-day visit to Sri Lanka, Modi flagged off the new train service of Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai), which will bridge the gap through railways between Rameswaram island and the mainland of the nation.
The Pamban bridge was constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a Navratna PSU which is under the Ministry of Railways. The construction had its own shares of troubles, involving environmental obstacles, the Palk Strait’s turbulent waters, strong winds, and unpredictable weather patterns made it a difficult process altogether.
It costed a sum of Rs 550 crore with its features including 2.08km length and 72.5 vertical lift span and 99 spans. It can be raised up to 17 meters, which will allow smooth passage of large ships and that won’t interrupt the train services as well. Stainless reinforcement, high-grade paint, and fully welded joints are the salient features of the bridge, which further improves the durability and reduces maintenance needs.
Apart from PM Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu R N Ravi, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu were present at the inauguration event. Later on, the PM also flagged off a Coast Guard ship which passed under the bridge.
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.
The Pamban Bridge is made with the support by 333 piles and 101 piers/pile caps, which is designed for dual rail tracks and future expansion. The usage of polysiloxane paint prevents a possibility of corrosion and ensures longevity despite the presence of the harsh environment.
In 1914, the British engineers constructed the original Pamban bridge, which served as a connectivity for pilgrims, tourists and traders for more than a century.
