New Illumination system at Big Temple to get completed by Nov

Speaking to reporters after inspecting the ongoing works at the Big Temple, the Archaeological Survey of India, Tiruchy circle has been bifurcated from Chennai circle which would control as many as 21 districts from Kanyakumari to upwards.

This would enhance attention and protection to as many as 162 ancient monuments available in these districts, he said.

Stating that among the monuments, the Big Temple is one of most famous world heritage centres, Arun Raj said, the ASI circle would continue to inspect the centre and would take the attention of the government if any defects were found and rectified at the earliest.

He said that the ongoing installation works of the modern illumination system would be completed by November end this year. Similar illumination would be provided in all the heritage centres across the nation, he said. The modern lighting system would never affect the ancient charm of the Big Temple.

Meanwhile, he said that there is a threat to several monuments by a few anti-social elements and the ASI is keen on solving this for which the department has sought the support of the Collectors and SPs of all 21 districts under the circle and actions are being initiated by those anti-social elements.

He also assured that more attention would be made on maintaining Dharasuram Airavadeeshwar temple and Gangaikonda Cholapuram.