A video shared online raised concerns about a possible fault in the newly inaugurated Pamban Bridge. The bridge, India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, opened on April 6, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched it on that day. However, Indian Railways and government officials have not confirmed any issue so far.
Constructed with a cost of ₹540Cr, The new Pamban Bridge faced a major issue on its very day of inauguration. #pambanexpress #Pamban #PambanRailBridge #IndianRailways pic.twitter.com/2Qajldueyn
— Trains of India (@trainwalebhaiya) April 6, 2025
Social Media Sparks Concern
Initially, the claim appeared on X (formerly Twitter). A user named @trainwalebhaiya posted that the bridge’s vertical lift span tilted while being lowered. This happened after it had been raised to let a navy ship pass. According to the post, the incident caused panic among railway staff. However, it also said the situation was quickly resolved.
Later, another user commented, “Will request you to add this photo also. The vertical lift stuck while coming down after the 1st lift to pass navy ship. Just show baazi doesn’t work.. #pambanrailbridge stuck. Railway safety commissioner already issued warning on the usage of substandard materials.”
Despite these posts, no official has released a statement. So far, the claims remain unverified.
The new age Pamban bridge is commissioned. It is India's first vertical lift sea bridge. Flagging off the Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai) Express train this morning.
Spanning 2.08 kilometers, the bridge comprises 99 spans and a 72.5-meter-long vertical lift span that can be raised… pic.twitter.com/rFnYikYGTS
— Rajendra B. Aklekar (@rajtoday) April 6, 2025
Bridge Features and Purpose
The new bridge replaces the iconic 1914 British-era cantilever bridge, which was shut down in December 2022. Since then, the new structure has become a key part of the country’s rail development.
Here are some important facts:
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Cost: ₹540 crore
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Length: 2.08 kilometers
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Design: 99 spans
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Special Span: 72.5-meter-long vertical lift span
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Lift Capacity: Can rise up to 17 meters to let ships pass
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Function: Improves train movement to Rameswaram
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Inaugural Train: PM Modi flagged off the Rameswaram–Tambaram Express from the bridge
PM Modi’s Speech in Rameswaram
During the inauguration, PM Modi also launched several development projects worth ₹8,300 crore. In his address, he made strong remarks on language, education, and national progress.
To promote Tamil, he said, “All efforts are on to take Tamil and its heritage to the corners of the world.” He criticised leaders who write to him in English and added, “At least put your signature in Tamil.”
Furthermore, he spoke about making medical education available in Tamil. He said this would help students from poor families.
On the occasion of Ram Navami, he linked the event to good governance. He said, “Lord Ram’s good governance is the foundation for nation-building.”
Additionally, he spoke about funding for Tamil Nadu. He said the Centre had increased financial support. However, he added that “some people cry” about funds without naming anyone.
No Official Confirmation Yet
Although social media posts claimed a technical problem, officials have not confirmed any fault. Therefore, the claims remain unproven.
Nevertheless, the launch of the Pamban Bridge stands as a major step in modernising Indian Railways. It also shows progress in building better transport infrastructure.
