The New Pamban Rail Bridge is now open for traffic, connecting Mandapam on the mainland to Rameswaram on Pamban Island. This bridge replaces the old structure that was shut down in December 2022 due to corrosion. It is the first of its kind in India, featuring a vertical-lift system to allow ships to pass through.
What are the key features of the New Pamban Bridge?
The bridge is 2.07 kilometers long and was built by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) at a cost of approximately ₹531-535 crore. It uses stainless steel reinforcement and special polysiloxane coating to prevent rust from the sea air. The most unique part is the 72.5-meter central section that lifts 17 meters high to let large ships pass underneath.
What is the speed limit and safety status of the bridge?
Trains can run on this bridge at a maximum speed of 80 km/h, though the speed is reduced to 50 km/h on the lifting section. A high-level committee certified the design as safe for a lifespan of 100 years. The design was created by Técnica y Proyectos S.A. and checked by experts from IIT Madras and IIT Bombay.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 2.07 Kilometers |
| Construction Cost | ₹531-535 Crore |
| Max Train Speed | 80 km/h |
| Lift Height | 17 Meters |
| Design Life | 100 Years |
| Inauguration Date | April 6, 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does the vertical lift system work on Pamban Bridge?
The bridge has a central section that automatically rises 17 meters above the tracks. This allows large ships to pass through the sea channel without stopping rail traffic for long periods.
Who built the New Pamban Rail Bridge?
The bridge was constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a PSU under the Ministry of Railways, with design support from Spanish consultancy Técnica y Proyectos S.A.