Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of the New Pamban Bridge in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, has brought attention to the advanced design and enhanced resilience of the bridge, especially in its ability to withstand severe weather conditions. According to MP Singh, director of operations at Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the bridge is engineered to handle cyclones with wind speeds of up to 230 kmph, far surpassing the intensity of the 1964 cyclone that significantly damaged the old bridge.
The 1964 cyclone, which had wind speeds around 160 kmph, caused considerable destruction to the original bridge. Despite the damage, the Scherzer Span, which could be opened to allow ships to pass, survived the storm unscathed. Singh explained that this resilience of the Scherzer Span was one of the key factors that challenged engineers during the design stage of the new bridge. To ensure that even higher-intensity cyclones would not cause harm, additional precautions were incorporated into the design.
One such safety feature is that the lift span of the bridge will remain seated at all times and will only be lifted when necessary to accommodate ships. This is to prevent the bridge from being exposed to the elements unnecessarily. Furthermore, the new bridge's girders are placed 4.8 meters above sea level, significantly higher than the previous bridge’s 2.1-meter clearance. This design ensures that even during high tides, the likelihood of the water reaching the girder is nearly impossible, a major improvement over the old structure where tidal surges sometimes reached the tracks.
The original Pamban Bridge had witnessed a tragic event during the December 1964 cyclone, when a six-coach train, the Pamban-Dhanushkodi passenger train, was struck by a giant wave. The storm caused the train to be engulfed by the sea, leading to the deaths of over 100 passengers, with some estimates suggesting the toll could have been around 200 due to the number of unregistered travelers. The disaster led to significant damage to the Pamban viaduct, leaving only the piers and a few girders intact.
The new Pamban Bridge stands as a testament to India’s commitment to improving its infrastructure in cyclone-prone areas. Designed as a vertical lift bridge, it is not only a crucial transportation link but also a symbol of the advancements made in engineering to protect both infrastructure and lives. As part of the broader modernization of railways and infrastructure in the region, the new bridge marks a significant step forward in Tamil Nadu’s resilience against natural disasters.
The Pamban Bridge, a vital link between Rameswaram and the mainland, is expected to enhance connectivity and contribute to the region's economic growth, while also ensuring that the lessons of the past are not forgotten.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)