24 February - The Pamban Bridge opened in 1914

 

The Pamban Bridge is a historic and iconic railway bridge located in the state of Tamil Nadu in India. It connects the town of Rameswaram on Pamban Island to the mainland of India. The bridge is situated over the Palk Strait and is a crucial link for the transportation of people and goods between the island and the mainland.It was opened on February 24, 1914.

Key features of the Pamban Bridge include:

1. Type of Bridge: The Pamban Bridge is a cantilever bridge with a Scherzer rolling lift section. The central part of the bridge can be lifted to allow ships and ferries to pass through.

2. Construction: The construction of the bridge was completed in 1914. It was a significant engineering marvel of its time and was the longest sea bridge in India until the Bandra-Worli Sea Link was opened in Mumbai.

3. Length: The total length of the bridge is about 2.3 kilometers (1.4 miles).

4. Lift Span: The central part of the bridge can be lifted vertically to let ships and vessels pass through. This is a unique feature of the bridge.

5. Scenic Views: The Pamban Bridge offers breathtaking views of the surrounding seascape and is a popular tourist attraction.

The Pamban Bridge has undergone maintenance and renovations over the years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. It holds historical significance as an engineering marvel and plays a vital role in the connectivity of the region.