Coimbatore, Oct 16: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay inaugurated the Periyar Arivulagam and Science Centre in Coimbatore on Friday. The inauguration was accompanied by a massive roadshow, with thousands of supporters gathering along the streets despite heavy rain. However, Vijay had to cancel his planned helicopter trip to Thrissur in Kerala due to bad weather.
The eight-storey Periyar Arivulagam and Science Centre is located on Dr Nanjappa Road in Gandhipuram. Spread across seven acres, the facility has been developed as a centre for education, scientific learning, research, and public knowledge.
Vijay also unveiled a statue of social reformer E V Ramasamy, popularly known as Periyar, on the campus.
Vijay Roadshow in Coimbatore Draws Massive Crowds
Thousands of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party workers, fans, and local residents gathered to welcome Vijay during his official visit to Coimbatore.
After arriving at Coimbatore International Airport, the chief minister travelled along an 11.4-kilometre route to Gandhipuram via Avinashi Road. He waved to supporters and greeted the cheering crowds along the way.
Despite heavy rainfall, supporters remained on both sides of the barricaded roads for hours. Party workers raised slogans and gathered in large numbers to catch a glimpse of the chief minister.
Police made extensive security arrangements across Peelamedu, Avinashi Road, and Gandhipuram. More than 3,500 police personnel were deployed across the city, while barricades and traffic diversions were put in place. A ban on drone flights was also enforced along the route.
Rs 300 Crore Periyar Arivulagam Project
The Periyar Arivulagam and Science Centre was developed at an estimated cost of Rs 300 crore. The project was conceptualised and initiated by the previous DMK government as a major public knowledge and educational facility.
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M K Stalin laid the foundation stone for the project on November 6, 2024. The Public Works Department (PWD) carried out the initial construction and development work under the previous administration.
Before the inauguration, Stalin shared a video on social media highlighting the DMK government’s role in developing the facility.
He said the achievement lay in planning and creating a unique institution rather than in the act of inaugurating it, asserting that the credit for the project belonged to the DMK.
Although the project was planned and initiated under the DMK government, it was formally inaugurated by Vijay following the change in government.
Digital Library, Planetarium and Science Facilities
The Periyar Arivulagam and Science Centre features several facilities designed to support students, researchers, and the general public.
Key facilities include:
- A collection of more than 1.25 lakh books
- A modern digital library and extensive e-book resources
- A dedicated children’s library
- Reading rooms and specialised study halls
- Interactive science learning facilities
- A planetarium and digital archives
- Modern computer systems and digital learning resources
- Study materials for TNPSC and UPSC competitive examinations
- A high-tech auditorium for academic seminars, cultural programmes, and intellectual discussions
The centre aims to encourage scientific thinking, promote reading habits, and provide students with access to educational resources.
During his visit, Vijay toured the science centre, digital library, and planetarium. He also interacted with students from local corporation schools on the second floor of the facility.
Vijay Announces Welfare Assistance and Development Projects
Following the inauguration, Vijay distributed welfare assistance worth Rs 34.72 crore to 9,343 beneficiaries under various Tamil Nadu government schemes.
He also inaugurated 89 completed development projects across the region, built at a total cost of Rs 408.25 crore.
In addition, the chief minister laid the foundation stone for 144 new projects estimated to cost Rs 32.32 crore. These projects are intended to support infrastructure development and improve facilities across Coimbatore.
The announcements formed a key part of Vijay’s official visit to the city after becoming chief minister in May.
Vijay’s Thrissur Visit Cancelled Due to Heavy Rain
Vijay’s scheduled helicopter journey from Coimbatore to Thrissur in Kerala was cancelled at the last minute because of heavy rainfall and unfavourable weather conditions.
A private helicopter had been kept ready for the journey following the official programme in Coimbatore. However, the worsening weather prevented the trip from taking place.
Vijay remained in Coimbatore until his subsequent return to Chennai in the evening.
The inauguration of the Periyar Arivulagam and Science Centre, the large public turnout, and the announcement of welfare and development initiatives made the visit a significant event in Coimbatore.
