Chennai, 24 February (H.S.) : The curtains have finally started to draw on the iconic 111-year-old Pamban railway lift bridge as dismantling operations officially commenced over the Pamban sea this week.

Workers were seen using welding torches to cut through the massive iron sections of the British-era structure, which are then being hoisted away by heavy-duty cranes. This historic removal comes after the bridge exceeded its operational lifespan, with a modern replacement bridge recently completed and inaugurated to handle the current railway traffic requirements.

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has been entrusted with the task of removing the structure in a phased manner. The first phase focuses on the central lift span, which is perhaps the most recognizable feature of the bridge. A senior railway official noted that the removal of this specific span is expected to take approximately four months.

Once the central section is cleared, fishing boats and larger vessels will be able to navigate through the new bridge area without hindrance. The second phase of the project will involve dismantling the remaining iron girders and tracks across the rest of the old corridor.

While the engineering work progresses, tourists and heritage enthusiasts have expressed a strong desire to preserve the legacy of the historic landmark. Many have appealed to the authorities to install a replica of the lift span at a prominent location in Rameswaram or near the Abdul Kalam memorial to educate future generations about its architectural and historical significance.

The new railway bridge, constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 645 crore, now stands adjacent to the old site, marking a new era for rail connectivity to the island town.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary