Why in News? 

• The Prime Minister of India recently inaugurated the new Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, marking the opening of India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge. 

Key Highlights

• Type: Vertical Lift Bridge – a movable bridge where the span rises vertically while staying parallel to the deck, allowing maritime traffic to pass. 
• Location: Connects Rameswaram Island with mainland India. 
• Significance: Enhances rail connectivity and maritime navigation, replacing the over-a-century-old bridge. 

About the New Bridge 

• Replaces the old Pamban Cantilever Bridge, built in 1914 and decommissioned in 2022. 
• Constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL). 
• Equipped with a 72.5-meter navigational span that can be raised up to 17 meters, enabling the passage of larger ships beneath the bridge. 

Additional Information 

• The original Pamban Bridge was India's first sea bridge and held historical importance. 
• The new bridge supports modern rail operations and promotes tourism and trade in the region.