Works on Pathuthoon, Nayak throne replica nearing completion

MADURAI: Daily commuters here will soon be delighted to see a combined theme of two historical structures at the Palanganatham roundabout, with the corporation fast-tracking woks on the replica installation of Pathuthoon and throne of King Thirumalai Nayak.
With the construction going on full swing, the structure is expected to be over in a few weeks’ time and is already attracting attention of the commuters.
Madurai corporation commissioner Aneesh Sekhar told TOI that four roundabouts in the city have been taken up for the beautification under Swachh Iconic places development project, funded by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility fund.
“The theme-based beautification project will add attraction to the city, which is undergoing a massive transformation under the smart city mission,” he said. An official from the corporation said that while Rs 11.67 crore has been allotted for the entire project, including maintenance of cleanliness around Meenakshi Amman Temple and other iconic places in the city, the beautification of four roundabouts will cost Rs 2 crore.
A granite structure of Meenakshi Amman temple car developed under this project at Fatima College junction has already been completed. Further works are under way at Sellur junction, Palanganatham and Moolakarai junction in Thirupparankundram.
The Pathuthoon (10 pilllars), centuries old rock pillars, are located in the congested commercial hub in the city and hardly gets any visibility. The throne developed at Palanganatham is the replica of the royal seat displayed at King Thirumalai Nayak Mahal, a 17th centure structure, which is one of the main tourist attractions.
Another official said that almost 80% of works at the Palanganatham junction has been completed, whereas the works at Thirupparankundram and Sellur have only begun. “A sum of Rs 50 lakh is being spent for the Palanganatham roundabout and Rs 48 lakh is to be spent at Thirupparankundram, where a gigantic peacock structure will come up,” he said.
The official added the peacock was chosen since the Thirupparankundram hillock is known for the bird, especially white peacock, which shows up occasionally. A giant fish structure is being planned at Sellur junction, denoting the symbol of Pandya dynasty, which ruled Madurai for centuries.