India's First Ever Vertical Lift Bridge

India's first vertical lift bridge, the New Pamban Bridge, is nearing completion and is set to transform connectivity between mainland India and Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu. Replacing the historic Pamban Bridge built in 1914, this new structure is designed with a state-of-the-art 72-meter vertical lift span, which can be raised to allow ships and large vessels to pass through freely.

Constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited at a cost of around ₹535 crore, the bridge spans approximately 2.07 kilometers and sits about 12.5 meters above sea level, 3 meters higher than the original bridge. Unlike the manual operation required for the old bridge, the New Pamban Bridge uses an automated electro-mechanical system for the lift mechanism, ensuring smoother operations and better efficiency. This bridge not only supports faster train speeds, reaching up to 65 km/h, but also improves safety and load-carrying capacity for increased rail traffic​.