The new Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu was recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking the opening of India’s first vertical-lift railway sea bridge. The 2.08km structure, designed by Assystem India, replaces a century-old corrosion damaged bridge on Pamban Island. During the inaugural ceremony, PM Modi hailed the project as the union of technology and tradition.

Engineering Resilience Against Odds

Build to withstand harsh marine environment, seismic activity, and cyclonic winds 1, the new Pamban bridge features a revolutionary 72.5-meter vertical-lift span – the first of its kind in India. Assystem India was actively involved in designing the substructure and foundation for both the main lift span bridge and the approach bridge. In addition, the team also worked on the structure’s corrosion protection plan.

The successful commissioning of the engineering marvel required the engineering team to overcome extreme challenges, including:

  • Advanced corrosion protection: Securing the base layer with a zinc thermal projection metal coating, followed by an epoxy sealant intermediate layer, and a polysiloxane finishing layer.
  • Smart mechanics: Low-maintenance electric motors and gearboxes for seamless operations.
  • Global collaboration: Executed amid COVID-19 travel restrictions through meticulous remote project management.

Key Features & Benefits of the New Pamban Bridge:

  • Located at Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, India, the bridge connects Rameswaram island with the main land.
  • The 72.5 m navigational span lifts up to 17 mts, allowing passage to larger ships and vessels, significantly boosting regional transportation and economic development.
  • The moveable bridge also allows transit of local fishing boats, supporting the livelihood of nearly 83,000 local inhabitants.
  • The design service life of the bridge is 100 years ensures long-term safety and reduces lifecycle costs

Why This Bridge Matters?

The new Pamban Bridge showcases India’s efforts to build top-quality infrastructure. For Assystem, this project exemplifies engineering excellence that marries innovation with empathy for communities.