Rajendra Maidan to be reopened to public today

Kochi: In a respite to the Kochiites’ need for more open spaces in the city, Rajendra Maidan, which had undergone a major renovation, will be open to the public today. Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA), which owns the property, had given a facelift to the Maidan in an attempt to ‘reclaim its lost glory’. The Maidan, which is rich with its historical and cultural past and has a beautiful waterfront area close to Marine drive, has been renovated using around Rs 94 lakh from Cochin Smart Mission Ltd (CSML).GCDA has prepared a booklet stating the historical importance of the Maidan. Instead of going for any ‘gimmicks’, GCDA authorities said that they have tried to restore the original outlook of the Maidan, which has witnessed several historical events, including India’s freedom struggle. The Maidan now features a large open stage and lawns along with a toilet for visitors.LSGD minister MB Rajesh will inaugurate the Maidan at the function to be presided over by GCDA chairman K Chandran Pillai at 5pm. The function will be attended by industries minister P Rajeeve, opposition leader V D Satheesan, Kochi mayor M Anil Kumar, MP Hibi Eden, MLAs T J Vinod, P V Sreenijan and K J Maxi, KMRL MD Loknath Behera, Cochin Shipyard MD Madhu S Nair, Ernakulam district collector Renu Raj, etc.For the past many months, numerous plans and promises were made for reopening the Maidan to the public. But it was delayed indefinitely due to various reasons, including a vigilance inquiry into the corruption allegations into the Laser Show project implemented at a cost of over Rs 3.5 crore in 2015.“ We have removed all the structures, including the laser show equipment and various shops. The pond was demolished. The lawn works are yet to be completed,” Pillai said.A musical show by playback singer Sithara Krishna Kumar will be the main attraction of the event.