New Pamban Bridge Opens, Reviving Rail Connectivity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Pamban rail bridge in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. This state-of-the-art bridge, which cost approximately Rs 550 crore, restores vital railway connectivity between mainland India and Rameswaram Island, a significant pilgrimage site. The new structure replaces an aging bridge that had succumbed to corrosion, marking a significant advancement in Indian Railways infrastructure.
Rameswaram-Tambaram Express: Schedule and Stoppages
The newly inaugurated Rameswaram-Tambaram Express will operate regularly, enhancing travel options for passengers. Train number 16103 will depart from Tambaram at 18:10 hours, arriving in Rameswaram at 05:40 hours the following day. Conversely, train number 16104 will leave Rameswaram at 16:00 hours, reaching Tambaram at 03:45 hours the next day.
Along its route, the train will make stops at several key stations, including Ramanathpuram, Paramakkudi, Manamadurai, Sivaganga, Karaikudi, Aranthangi, Pattukottai, Thiruthuraipoondi, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, Chidambaram, Tiruppadiripuliyur, and Villupuram. This expanded service is expected to facilitate easier access for devotees traveling to the Char Dham pilgrimage destination throughout the year.
Innovative Features of the New Pamban Bridge
The new Pamban bridge, spanning 2.07 kilometers, features a unique vertical lift mechanism that allows for the passage of larger vessels beneath it. Train operations will temporarily pause when ships need to navigate under the bridge, which can elevate its central section to a height of 17 meters. This innovative design significantly enhances maritime connectivity while accommodating increased rail traffic.
Engineered to withstand the challenging conditions of the Palk Strait, the bridge incorporates advanced construction techniques and materials to ensure durability. It is designed to last for 100 years and can support train speeds of up to 160 km/h, although operational speeds will be limited to 80 km/h due to existing signal constraints. The bridge’s construction includes stainless steel reinforcement and a specialized polysiloxane coating to protect against corrosion, ensuring its longevity in harsh maritime environments.
A New Era of Connectivity
The old Pamban Rail Bridge, built in 1914, served as a crucial link for over a century before being decommissioned in December 2022 due to severe corrosion. The Ministry of Railways approved the construction of the new bridge in February 2019, recognizing the need for a modern structure to support the growing demands of rail transport and enhance safety.
With the inauguration of the new Pamban bridge, Indian Railways has taken a significant step towards improving infrastructure and connectivity in the region. This development not only benefits local residents but also supports the influx of pilgrims and tourists to Rameswaram Island, reinforcing its status as a key spiritual destination in India.
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