New Pamban Sea Bridge Likely to be Commissioned in November
The much-awaited new Pamban sea bridge is expected to be commissioned by mid-November, according to RN Singh, General Manager of Southern Railway. After inspecting the bridge on Tuesday, Singh provided updates on the progress, emphasizing that it is nearly ready for operation.
The old Pamban bridge, which had been in use for several decades, was closed in December 2022 due to severe corrosion and a deteriorating structure. The closure became necessary to ensure the safety of passengers and rail services. Construction of the new bridge, initially delayed by two years due to the COVID-19 lockdown, is now in its final stages.
Singh revealed that the application for clearance has already been submitted to the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), who will conduct a thorough inspection before certifying the bridge for use. Once certified, rail traffic could resume on the new bridge as early as mid-November.
In a significant milestone, the new Pamban bridge includes India’s first-ever vertical lift span, allowing ships to pass through without any disruption to rail services.
As for the old Pamban bridge, Singh stated that a decision would soon be made regarding its future, whether to dismantle or restore it.
The commissioning of the new Pamban sea bridge is a key step in enhancing connectivity between Rameswaram and the mainland, offering a vital link for both residents and tourists.
