Tiruchi Corporation awaiting funds for Cauvery riverfront project

Tiruchi City Corporation is awaiting funding from the State government to commence work on creating a recreational space on the banks of the Cauvery in the city.

The proposal for developing a riverfront park was initiated in response to residents’ demands for creating recreational spaces in the city. The project will be undertaken in two phases to create a recreational zone and a dedicated space for pilgrims to perform rituals on the ghats.

The civic body has identified two stretches along the Cauvery at an estimated cost of ₹50 crore. Around a 1.5-km stretch between the Tiruchi-Chennai national highway bridge and railway track on Odathurai Road, and a 750-metre stretch between Amma Mandapam and Geethapuram in Srirangam.

After a feasibility study to check the condition of the river bank, a detailed project report (DPR) was prepared and submitted to the municipal administration department. The civic body has sought funding from KfW bank of Germany to implement the project. “Funding for the project will be allocated within a few weeks, and after which tenders will be floated to identify a suitable contractor,” said a senior Corporation official.

According to the plan, the civic body will develop a walking track on the bank with vintage street lights and create space for residents to meditate. A children’s park, a yoga hall, and an amphitheatre where cultural events can be held are planned at an estimate of ₹24 crore.

A nine-metre watchtower would be set up on the other bank from where people can view the Rockfort and the Rajagopuram at Srirangam. Granite benches will be installed at regular intervals to help residents engage in morning walks to relax. A fence will be constructed around the riverbed for the safety of visitors.

Phase II will cover a 750-metre stretch between Amma Mandapam and Geethapuram in Srirangam, where visitors perform rituals and take a holy dip. Bathing showers and restrooms, space for pilgrims to perform rituals, are planned at an estimate of ₹26 crore.