Sun Apr 06 19:00:00 UTC 2025: ## PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Vertical Lift Railway Bridge in Rameswaram
**Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first vertical lift railway bridge in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, on Sunday, April 6th. The ₹550 crore project replaces a century-old structure and significantly improves connectivity to the pilgrimage site.
The new Pamban Sea Bridge, a 2.5-kilometer structure with a 72.5-meter vertical lift span, allows large ships to pass beneath without disrupting train traffic. This innovative design reduces train crossing time from 25-30 minutes to under 5 minutes. Constructed with marine-grade materials for durability and incorporating dual rail tracks for future expansion, the bridge features 99 standard spans supported by 333 foundation piles and 101 pile caps/piers.
The inauguration also saw the launch of the Rameswaram-Tambaram Express, enhancing rail connectivity between southern Tamil Nadu and Chennai. PM Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard ship that passed under the new bridge, showcasing its functionality.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi, and other state and central government officials. The bridge, built in collaboration with Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), replaces the corroded 1914 Colonial-era bridge, which was closed in 2022. The new structure is expected to significantly benefit pilgrims and boost the region’s economy. PM Modi arrived in Tamil Nadu after a visit to Sri Lanka.
First Piper 