New Rameswaram Pamban Bridge raises questions about lifespan compared to historic structure

The new Rameswaram Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu is expected to last 38 years without maintenance and up to 58 years with minimal upkeep. This is shorter than the old bridge, which operated for over 108 years. The old bridge, built in 1914, used a special silver paint for corrosion resistance. The new bridge employs polysiloxane paint, which is also designed for durability in corrosive environments. Concerns have been raised about the new bridge's lifespan and construction standards. The Southern Railways is addressing these issues while promoting the bridge as a modern engineering achievement, connecting Rameswaram Island to the mainland.