A rail bridge between Mandapam and Pamban in Ramanathapuram district was first built by the British in 1914. The central bascule span of the old bridge became a defining landmark of Rameswaram island.
The bridge was designed during the British period by a German engineer, Gerzer, and the structure came to be known by his name—an association that has continued over the years.
A new rail bridge has since been constructed and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 6, 2025. The new bridge features a vertical-lift mechanism at the centre, developed by engineers from IIT Bombay and the Railways’ construction wing.
Railway authorities have now extended the name “Gerzer” to the new lift span as well, placing a name board on a building near the movable section. However, Seva Bharati’s Sudalai and other social activists have opposed the move and have urged the Railways to change the name, noting that the new bridge was built by Indian engineers at a cost of Rs 531 crore.
