Confusion prevails over PM’s visit for Kalam’s anniversary

As the Prime Minister is expected to inaugurate the memorial at Peikarumbu in Rameswaram, various facilities in it are proceeding at a rapid pace and nearing completion. Security has been strengthened in Rameswaram and there is police presence everywhere. 

However, there is a confusion regarding the schedule of Modi and the place where the meeting will be held. Initially, the authorities had decided to conduct the programme on the empty land opposite the memorial but after DRDO, Director General, Christopher, inspected the spot he said he was not satisfied about security of the venue as it is close to the railway track. 

Following his recommendation, officials are now planning to shift the venue to Mandapam where the helipad is located. Officials have planned to setup the stage close to the helipad. But, the itinerary of the Prime Minister is yet to be confirmed. 

Sources said that as the function has been planned by the DRDO, they are not very keen in other programmes. Therefore, it is likely that other programmes such as inauguration of the 9.5 km road to Dhanushkodi and foundation stone laying ceremony of the four-laning works of Ramanathapuram-Rameswaram road would not be conducted as planned earlier. 

“Narendra Modi is not expected to visit Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameswaram,” said sources. 

Shailesh Kumar Yadav, IG (South Zone), inspected the security arrangements at the Kalam memorial, on Wednesday. A dog squad was pressed into service. “An inspection is likely to be held every day till the day of the function,” he said. As regards the number of police personnel to be deployed at the memorial, the IG said that they have not laid a proper plan as the details about the number of VVIPs visiting Peikarumbu on the day of inauguration are not yet known.