January 23, 2024: The Indian government is planning to construct a sea bridge linking India and Sri Lanka, which could boost tourism and the economy in the region, according to media reports. According to officials, the government will conduct a feasibility study to develop a 23-kilometre bridge across the Palk Strait, connecting Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu, India and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka.
The New Ram Setu, a 23-km road/rail sea link, will connect Dhanushkodi, India, with Talaimannar, Sri Lanka, across the Palk strait, Sethusamudram project alternate, reducing transport cost by 50% and provide a Mainland connection to Lankan Island. The project will be promoted by the National Highways Authority India (NHAI), officials said, as cited in media reports.
Officials added that the Economic and Technological Cooperation Agreement concluded six months ago paved the way for the Rs 40,000 Crore development, including new rail lines and expressway with the Ram Setu at its centre being backed by the ADB, with a feasibility study to start soon.
India is considering the development of the 23-km sea bridge linking India and Sri Lanka, inspired by the significance of the bridge constructed by Lord Ram, known as ‘Ram Setu’. According to mythology, Dhanushkodi in Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu is believed to be the place where Lord Ram asked the army of Vanaras (monkeys) to construct a bridge to reach Lanka.
See also: Ram Setu Bridge (Adam’s Bridge): Scientific and historical facts
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |