Ramanathapuram (Tamil Nadu) [India], April 6: Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday praised the newly inaugurated Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu as an “engineering marvel” and a proud symbol of Tamil culture. The event marked a historic milestone, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially dedicated India’s first vertical lift sea bridge to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.
“Today is the day of Ram Navami. It is the day on which our PM, Narendra Modi, has dedicated the new Pamban Bridge to the nation. This day will remain in our memories for more than 100 years,” Vaishnaw told the gathering at the inauguration event in Ramanathapuram.
The Railways Minister described the 2.07-kilometre-long bridge spanning the Palk Strait as a significant achievement, stating, “Pamban Bridge is an engineering marvel and the first vertical lift sea bridge in our country. It is a pearl of Tamil culture and a milestone in our journey toward becoming a developed nation.”
Highlighting Prime Minister Modi’s respect for Tamil Nadu’s heritage, Vaishnaw added, “Modi ji understands the aspirations of Tamil Nadu. He respects the rich and ancient Tamil culture and the classical Tamil language.”
Vaishnaw also shared key developments in Tamil Nadu’s railway infrastructure. He announced that 77 railway stations across the state are undergoing reconstruction under the Amrit Bharat Scheme. One of the most notable is the Rameswaram Railway Station, which is being renovated to reflect the region’s cultural heritage and is scheduled for completion by December.
“Our Rameswaram Station will be beautifully redeveloped, connected with the heritage of Rameswaram. Many new lines have been constructed and more projects initiated. Modi ji has also allocated eight Vande Bharat trains to Tamil Nadu,” the minister said.
A live demonstration at the event showcased the bridge’s vertical lift mechanism in action. An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) boat successfully passed beneath the raised structure, followed by a train journey across the bridge — underscoring its seamless integration of maritime and rail traffic.
The New Pamban Bridge stands as a symbol of India’s engineering excellence and visionary infrastructure development, enhancing connectivity to the pilgrimage town of Rameswaram and bolstering regional trade and tourism.