PM Modi to mark Ram Navami with Rameshwaram Temple visit, Pamban Bridge inauguration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Ramanathswamy Temple in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, on April 6 to mark the occasion of Ram Navami. During his visit, he will also inaugurate the highly anticipated New Pamban Bridge, which will replace the century-old structure that was decommissioned due to corrosion.

The original Pamban Rail Bridge, built in 1914, served as a crucial link connecting mainland India to Rameshwaram for over a century. However, it was closed in 2022 due to severe structural damage, prompting the construction of a modern replacement. The New Pamban Bridge, developed at a cost of Rs 535 crore by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), is India's first vertical lift railway sea bridge, designed to accommodate faster trains and increased traffic capacity.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had previously described the new bridge as a milestone in Indian engineering. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) in November 2024, he stated, "Built in 1914, the old Pamban Rail Bridge connected the mainland to Rameswaram for 105 years. Decommissioned in Dec 2022 due to corrosion, it paved the way for the modern New Pamban Bridge, marking a new era of connectivity!" The 2.5 km-long bridge is expected to enhance transport links and boost tourism in the region.

Alongside the Rameshwaram visit, PM Modi and President Droupadi Murmu also extended their greetings to Bangladesh on the country’s National Day. In a message to Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin, President Murmu highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, stating that India-Bangladesh relations span various sectors, including trade, connectivity, power, and cultural exchanges. She emphasized India’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s democratic and economic growth under the "Neighbourhood First" and "Act East" policies.

PM Modi, in his message to Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, reiterated India’s dedication to strengthening bilateral relations. "This day stands as a testament to our shared history and sacrifices, which have laid the foundation of our bilateral partnership," he said. He further affirmed India’s commitment to advancing peace, stability, and prosperity between the two nations, in line with mutual sensitivities and strategic interests.

The Bangladesh National Day, celebrated on March 26, marks the country’s declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971. India played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s liberation, and the two nations continue to share close diplomatic and economic ties. As India gears up to inaugurate a major infrastructure project and strengthen international partnerships, PM Modi’s upcoming visit underscores the government’s focus on both domestic development and regional diplomacy.