Modi Showcases Pamban Bridge, Sparks Political Firestorm in Tamil Nadu Visit

Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, April 15, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Tamil Nadu spotlighted transformative infrastructure projects, headlined by the ambitious new Pamban bridge, while igniting a fierce political clash with the state’s ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) over central fund allocations.

In a vibrant event near the shores of Rameswaram, Modi laid the foundation for infrastructure projects worth over ₹17,000 crore, with the ₹560-crore Pamban bridge as the centerpiece. The 2.08-km rail bridge, designed to replace the iconic but aging century-old structure, promises enhanced connectivity between Mandapam and the pilgrimage hub of Rameswaram island. Featuring a navigational span and cutting-edge engineering, the bridge is expected to open by mid-2025, boosting tourism and trade. Other projects, including rail upgrades, port expansions, and road networks, underscore the central government’s push for Tamil Nadu’s economic growth.

However, the visit quickly turned contentious as Modi accused the DMK government of mismanaging central funds and stalling key schemes. Addressing a public rally, he claimed the state had failed to utilize ₹1.5 lakh crore allocated by the Centre, pointing to delays in Chennai Metro expansion and flood relief measures. “The DMK’s corruption and obstructionism are holding Tamil Nadu back,” Modi charged, criticizing their resistance to initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He positioned the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as the state’s true champion, vowing to accelerate development.

The DMK hit back sharply. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, in a series of statements, accused the Centre of withholding Tamil Nadu’s rightful funds as “political revenge” for rejecting policies like the NEP. “The Prime Minister’s speeches are divisive, and his government ignores our flood-hit people,” Stalin said, referencing last year’s cyclone devastation. DMK leaders further alleged that the Centre’s tax devolution shortchanged Tamil Nadu, hampering state-led welfare programs. The war of words has escalated tensions ahead of looming state elections, with both sides vying for voter support.

Local reactions are mixed. Residents like R. Murugan, a Rameswaram fisherman, welcomed the bridge, saying, “It’ll make travel easier and bring more visitors.” But others, like Chennai shopkeeper S. Lakshmi, expressed frustration: “Leaders fight over funds, but we just want better roads and jobs.”

The Pamban bridge, a symbol of progress, has thus become a backdrop for a broader battle over federalism and governance. As Tamil Nadu grapples with balancing development and political divides, Modi’s visit underscores the high stakes in this southern powerhouse.