India’s ever-growing infrastructure is set to see a new milestone! On the occasion of Ram Navami, April 6, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the state-of-the-art Pamban Rail Bridge in Tamil Nadu. This bridge is India’s first vertical lift sea bridge and here’s all you need to know about it.
PM Modi To Inaugurate Pamban Rail Bridge
According to NDTV, PM Narendra Modi is all set to inaugurate India’s first vertical lift sea bridge, the Pamban Rail Bridge, in Tamil Nadu on April 6. He will flag off a train and a ship from the road bridge and oversee its operation. Later, he will head to Ramanathaswamy temple in Rameswaram. After the darshan, he will perform pooja there as well.
This new bridge will replace the iconic bridge that was built in 1914. After more than a century of service, it was decommissioned in December 2022. Its extensive corrosion and safety concerns were the biggest reason for this step. The new bridge is constructed near the older one and is set to transform connectivity between the mainland and Rameswaram Island.
The new Pamban Rail Bridge is 2.5 kilometres long and was built at a cost of ₹535 crore. Developed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), it will offer seamless rail movement and maritime navigation. After its inauguration, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of various rail and road projects worth over ₹8,300 crore in the state.
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All About India’s First Vertical Lift Sea Bridge
Here are some key features of the new Pamban Rail Bridge –
1. This state-of-the-art bridge has a vertical lift span that can be raised in just five minutes to allow ships to pass. It is the first vertical lift bridge in India.
2. The lifting mechanism cannot be operated if the wind velocity reaches 58 kmph or beyond. This is quite frequent between October and February.
3. Trains will be able to travel at speeds of up to 75 kmph on the new Pamban Rail Bridge, which is much higher than the previous 10 kmph limit.
4. It has a clearance of 22 meters above sea level, which is significantly higher than the old bridge’s 1.5-meter clearance. This will allow larger vessels to pass.
5. This bridge is designed to support future railway electrification and has dual tracks as well. This means the bridge will ensure seamless upgrades to modern rail systems.
6. It is constructed with stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade protective paint and fully welded joints.
Also Read: 60 Northeast Railway Stations To Undergo Redevelopment Under Amrit Bharat Scheme
We can’t wait to see how the new Pamban Rail Bridge will transform travel in the region. Share your thoughts in the comments as well!
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@RailMinIndia
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