Sri Lanka: Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the New Pamban Bridge in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, on Sunday, marking a milestone in India’s infrastructure development.

The 2.07-kilometre-long bridge, which spans the Palk Strait, stands as a testament to India’s engineering expertise. PM Modi, accompanied by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, flagged off the first train to cross the new sea bridge.

A demonstration of the bridge’s capabilities was showcased, including footage of an Indian Coast Guard (ICG) boat successfully navigating beneath the bridge, underscoring its clearance and waterway accessibility. Following this, a train crossed the bridge, demonstrating its structural integrity and rail connectivity.

Earlier in the day, Union Minister Vaishnaw raised the BJP flag at the Pamban Bridge and congratulated party workers on the occasion of the BJP’s foundation day. "The resolve of Antyodaya and the spirit of 'Nation First, Always First'… Heartfelt congratulations to all workers on the foundation day of the Bharatiya Janata Party," he posted.

Governor RN Ravi also visited the Swamy temple in Rameswaram ahead of the inauguration.

The bridge’s history dates back to 1914 when British engineers constructed the original Pamban Bridge, a cantilever structure with a Scherzer Rolling Lift span to connect Rameswaram Island to the Indian mainland. The new bridge, sanctioned in 2019, is 3 meters higher than the original, thus improving sea connectivity and meeting growing transportation needs.

Serving as a vital lifeline for pilgrims, tourists, and trade, the original bridge’s harsh marine environment and increasing traffic demands necessitated a more modern solution. In response, the Indian government sanctioned the construction of this technologically advanced replacement.

The New Pamban Bridge was built by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Railways. The bridge meets enhanced speed, load, and maritime requirements, offering greater safety, durability, and innovation.

Not only is this the first vertical lift sea bridge in India, but it also shares technological similarities with globally renowned bridges such as the Golden Gate Bridge in the United States, the Tower Bridge in London, and the Oresund Bridge between Denmark and Sweden.

The New Pamban Bridge marks a significant step forward in India’s infrastructure and transportation capabilities, ensuring improved connectivity and setting a new benchmark for future projects.