Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], April 5 (ANI): Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday called the Pamban Bridge one of the most significant bridges in the history of the Indian railways.

Speaking to the media, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, 'The Pamban Bridge is one of the most significant bridges in the history of the railways. It will be the first vertical lift bridge built in seawater, and it is one of the greatest architectural marvels for Tamil history, culture, ancient Tamil civilization, and the Tamil language...It will be inaugurated tomorrow by Prime Minister Modi.'

He emphasised the bridge's unique design as India's first vertical lift bridge built in seawater, highlighting its importance to Tamil heritage and engineering excellence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the newly constructed Pamban Railway Bridge on April 6. On Sunday, PM Modi will also offer prayers at the Ramanathswamy Temple in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, to mark the occasion of Ram Navmi.

The bridge, built at an estimated cost of Rs 535 crore, replaces the old structure, which was damaged by corrosion.

Located in Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram district, the bridge connects the Indian mainland with Rameswaram Island, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

It will be India's first vertical lift railway sea bridge, marking a significant milestone in the country's railway infrastructure.

The old bridge, originally built for Metre Gauge trains, was strengthened for Broad Gauge traffic and reopened in 2007.

In February 2019, the Ministry of Railways sanctioned the construction of a new bridge to replace the ageing structure.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw posted on X in November 2024 about 'India's first vertical lift railway sea bridge.'

'Built in 1914, the old Pamban Rail Bridge connected the mainland to Rameswaram for 105 years. Decommissioned in Dec 2022 due to corrosion, it paved the way for the modern New Pamban Bridge, marking a new era of connectivity!' he said.

The bridge spans over 2.5 km and was built by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL).'It's designed to handle faster trains and increased traffic. The New Pamban Bridge is not just functional, it's a symbol of progress, connecting people and places with modern engineering,' Vaishnaw posted on X. (ANI)