Garbage at Kalam’s memorial site shocks locals

Following lack of action in constructing Kalam’s memorial even five months after his death on July 28 this year, the public of Rameswaram has volunteered to build the memorial of the former President. He was buried at Peikarumbu village by the central public works department (CPWD) acceding to his relatives’ request. 

Though the surrounding area was surveyed by the CPWD, no further action was taken. Lack of a compound wall has led to the spot being filled with animal droppings while a temporary canopy over his resting place has become an abode for dogs. 

The Thangachimadam panchayat not cleaning the area of accumulated tourist related trash over some days and open defecation being practiced by the nearly 1000 tourists who arrive daily has resulted in a foul odour emanating from the place. Kalam’s elder brother Abdul Maraikayar on being asked about this state of affairs said, “The people who come to see me say that Kalam’s resting place has a bad odour. The union government should take action to erect the memorial expeditiously, “ he added.