India’s first-ever vertical lift railway bridge, an engineering feat, is set to be inaugurated in Pamban, Rameswaram, replacing the historic British-era Pamban Railway Bridge, according to report by ANI. The completion of this state-of-the-art structure marks a crucial advancement in India’s railway infrastructure, promising enhanced connectivity between the mainland and Rameswaram Island.
The original Pamban Bridge, commissioned in 1914, was designed with a manually operated horizontal opening mechanism to facilitate the movement of maritime vessels.
Initially constructed for Metre Gauge trains, it was later reinforced to accommodate Broad Gauge traffic and was reopened for operations in 2007.
However, recognising the limitations of the ageing structure, the Ministry of Railways approved the construction of a modern replacement in February 2019.
Its most striking feature is a 72.5-metre-long central span that can be lifted to a height of 17 metres, enabling ships to pass beneath.
The advanced electro-mechanical lift mechanism is seamlessly integrated with train control systems, ensuring smooth and automated operations.
