The Hindu 04.10.2010
Stone laid for multi-level parking near Meenakshi Temple
Special Correspondent
| A total of 260 cars and vans, 500 two-wheelers and 25 buses can be parked |
MADURAI: Union Minister M.K. Alagiri laid the foundation stone for the construction of Rs 5.62 crore multi-level parking at the old Central Vegetable Market near Meenakshi Temple at a cost of here on Sunday.
Following representations from various organisations to shift the market for more than two decades and, as promised in his election manifesto, Mr. Alagiri initiated the process soon after being elected MP.
Spacious site
As the first step, a spacious site was identified near the District Court, off Melur Road (Viragu Mandi), and after constructing sheds, the vegetable market was shifted. It has been functioning there with all amenities, he said.
In a bid to decongest vehicular traffic around the world famous shrine, the Corporation authorities proposed to construct a multi-level parking system.
The parking area will come up on 2.37 acres with 44,708 square feet each in ground floor and first floor.
Capacity
A total of 260 cars and vans, 500 two-wheelers and 25 buses can be parked.
Apart from this, the area will have an ATM outlet, cloak room facility and a cafeteria for the tourists.
In the presence of Mayor G. Thenmozhi, Deputy Mayor P.M. Mannan, Corporation Commissioner S. Sebastine, councillors and MLAs, Mr. Alagiri also laid the stone for construction of a reception centre for tourists, refreshment counters, cloak room and waiting hall in the campus.
As the temple and its surroundings are visited by tourists from all over the globe, it had been proposed to give a facelift to Pudumandapam at a cost of Rs 2.32 crore.
The Kunnathur Chatram, which was in a dilapidated condition, would be renovated and handed over to the merchants as per their wishes, Mr. Alagiri said and added that Thirumalai Naick Palace, Mariamman Teppakulam and other heritage locations too would be given funds for beautification.
Tourism Department
The Corporation, with the support of Tourism Department, would execute works swiftly and dedicate the facilities for public use shortly, Mr. Alagiri said and assured all support for the development of Madurai.
Earlier, Corporation PRO R. Baskaran welcomed the gathering.
