PM Modi inaugurates new Pamban Sea Bridge

Prime Minister Modi inaugurates India’s first vertical lift sea bridge and introduces infrastructure projects worth ₹8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Tamil Nadu on April 6 to inaugurate the much-anticipated New Pamban Rail Bridge, India’s first vertical lift sea bridge, as well as to launch several major infrastructure projects aimed at increasing connectivity and economic development throughout the state.

The inauguration ceremony, which coincides with Ram Navami, will be held at noon. The New Pamban Rail Bridge connects Rameswaram Island to the mainland and is a significant engineering accomplishment. Built at a cost of over ₹550 crore, the bridge extends 2.08 kilometres and includes 99 spans, including a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that can rise 17 metres to allow ship passage without disrupting rail operations.

The bridge, built with high-quality materials and designed for dual rail tracks, features advanced protective coatings to withstand the region’s marine climate and ensure long-term durability with minimal maintenance.

During his visit, PM Modi will launch a new train service across the bridge and witness its inaugural run. The bridge is located near Dhanushkodi and is thought to be the starting point of the mythical Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge). It is also culturally significant.

The Prime Minister will visit Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram before laying foundation stones and dedicating infrastructure projects worth ₹8,300 crore. These include important highway developments such as the four-laning of the 28-kilometre Walajapet-Ranipet stretch (NH-40), the dedication of the 29-kilometre Viluppuram-Puducherry section (NH-332), and the foundations for the Poondiyankuppam-Sattanathapuram (NH-32) and Cholapuram-Thanjavur (NH-36) segments. These projects are expected to greatly improve regional mobility, tourism, and economic activity.