New Pamban Bridge, India’s first vertical lift railway bridge to be a game-changer in rail connectivity

The much-awaited New Pamban Bridge in Rameswaram is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 6, coinciding with Ram Navami. 

This state-of-the-art bridge is India’s first vertical lift railway bridge, designed to enhance rail connectivity between the Indian mainland and Rameswaram island.

Constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) at a cost of approximately Rs 280 crore, the bridge features an innovative vertical lift mechanism, allowing it to rise 22 meters in just five minutes to facilitate the passage of ships underneath. 

India’s engineering marvel…

Pamban Bridge in Rameswaram pic.twitter.com/UJ4v8r3vWa

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) March 27, 2025

The foundation stone for the project was laid by PM Modi in November 2019, and construction continued even during the COVID-19 pandemic. This iconic infrastructure will significantly boost connectivity and tourism in the region.

Key Features of the New Pamban Bridge:

• First-of-its-kind vertical lift mechanism: The bridge can be raised to 22 meters to allow ships to pass underneath.
• Rapid lift operation: The lift mechanism takes just 5 minutes to elevate.
• Seamless rail connectivity: It will facilitate the movement of high-speed and double-track trains between Rameswaram and the mainland.
• Advanced technology: Built using modern engineering techniques, it ensures smooth and safe train operations without disrupting maritime traffic.
• Massive investment: Constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 280 crore by the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL).
• Resilient construction: Work continued even during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring timely completion.
• Successor to the old Pamban Bridge: The new bridge replaces the 108-year-old iconic Pamban rail bridge.