Tourism projects launched in Poompuhar, Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Trichy: Foundation stones were laid on Wednesday for tourism development works in Poompuhar and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, besides the renovation of a tourist hotel in Tharangambadi.In Poompuhar in Mayiladuthurai district, district collector H S Srikanth launched development work at the Poompuhar tourist centre at an estimated cost of ₹11 crore. Poompuhar MLA ‘Nivetha' M Murugan, tourism officer L Muthusamy and other officials attended the event. The project includes civil and electrical works for an Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) zone and a guest house. Other components include a turf with seating arrangements, a children's play area with equipment, signage and wayfinding boards, four-wheeler parking and external electrical facilities. At Tharangambadi, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation will renovate Hotel Tamil Nadu at a cost of ₹7.2 crore to improve facilities for tourists. The works include renovation of rooms, kitchen and restaurant, construction of a new reception building and related upgrades. In Ariyalur district, collector P Rathinasamy laid the foundation stone for tourism infrastructure works at Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple at a cost of ₹5 crore. Jayankondam MLA K So K Kannan and officials were present. The project will create an entrance plaza, vehicle parking facilities, guide boards and basic amenities, besides introducing electric vehicles for visitors. The works will be carried out on 5.75 acres within the temple's Guruvalappar temple premises.