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Arikamedu: Government appoints HUDCO consultant

Special Correspondent

It will prepare Master Plan for developing it as tourist spot

Puducherry: Chief Minister N. Rangasamy told the Assembly on Monday that the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) has been appointed consultant for preparing a master plan to develop Arikamedu as a tourist spot.

He was replying to a query from A.Anbalagan (AIADMK) during Question Hour in the Assembly.

Referring to the historical and archaeological importance of Arikamedu, Mr. Rangasamy said a committee had also been constituted under the chairmanship of the Secretary to Department of Tourism (Puducherry) with the Superintendent of Archaeological Survey of India (Southern Circle) and Chief Engineer of PWD Puducherry as its other members. This committee would get the guidance and counselling of HUDCO in preparation of the master plan. Already about Rs 3.06 crore (including a grant of Rs 1.13 crore from the Centre) had been released to the PWD for development of the site. Arikamedu had been an important trading post several centuries ago in view of its trade links with Rome.

No private investor was involved in any aspect of the site's development, the Chief Minister said.

Charge rejected

Mr. Rangasamy rejected Mr. Anbalagan's criticism that there was no proper planning to develop the site. The Chief Minister said already a 13-acre site had been placed at the disposal of the ASI Chennai for archaeological activities in the village. A 42-hectare site would be acquired and once the acquisition was done, HUDCO's plan to develop the village into a tourist spot would be implemented with amenities for the tourists and those carrying out research works.

Water bodies' protection

Chief Minister told A. Elumalai (Independent) that a delegation of Sedarapet and Karasur villagers met him recently to draw his attention on protecting the water bodies, burial ground and also other basic facilities in these villages where a Special Economic Zone would come up. Mr. Rangasamy said he had explained to the delegation that nothing will be done to harm the tanks and lakes in the villages.

The Chief Minister told A. Anbalagan (AIADMK) that a Carat Meter would be installed on the premises of Amudhasurabi Cooperative Consumer Stores in the next two weeks to help those who purchase gold jewels to check its quality.

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