Safety Commissioner’s Report on Pamban Vertical Lift Sea Bridge: Construction Flaws Raised

The Pamban Vertical Lift Sea Bridge in Tamil Nadu has come under scrutiny following a report by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), A.M. Chowdhary, who highlighted serious flaws in its construction. The 2-km long bridge, featuring a 72-meter vertical lift to allow passage for large ships, has faced criticism for its planning and execution.

In his report dated November 26, 2024, Chowdhary pointed out that the Railway Board failed to follow its own guidelines, including not forming a technical advisory group for the project. He contrasted the current bridge with the old one, built in 1914 and considered a technical marvel, which was repaired after cyclone damage in 1964. Chowdhary criticized the new bridge’s construction, calling it a poor example despite the availability of advanced technology.

The new bridge, being built at a cost of ₹280 crore by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), is set to replace the existing 110-year-old cantilever bridge, which was closed in December 2022 due to cracks. Chowdhary raised concerns about corrosion risks due to the bridge's location in one of the world’s most corrosive environments, pointing out that components of the bridge are already showing signs of rust.

He also imposed a speed limit of 50 km/h on the lift bridge and called for a re-survey of the tracks to address deficiencies. Furthermore, he recommended that bridge operators and technicians receive proper training and certifications. The CRS report also noted issues with the signaling system, including mismatched data between signaling and electromechanical systems.

In response, the Railway Board has formed a five-member technical committee to investigate the concerns raised by Chowdhary. This committee is expected to submit its report within 45 days. The Pamban bridge is not only vital for transportation but is also a key tourist attraction, especially for pilgrims visiting the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram.

With growing concerns about railway safety, especially after the tragic Balasore train accident, the government’s actions regarding this high-profile project are under close scrutiny.