CHENNAI: Ten protected monuments top the chart for renovation prepared by the Tamil Nadu Archaeology department at an estimated cost of `20 crore. The project is expected to be funded by the Asian Development Bank. “We have already submitted a report on the project for heritage restoration and conservation of important monuments. Ten protected monuments will be taken up for renovation at a cost of `20 crore,” a top official said.
Located near Kadapakkam, off the East Coast Road, the charming Alamparai Fort lies along the sea. The port town once served as an important centre for maritime trade. This 17th century Mughal fort will get renovated under the project.The famous Gingee Fort, located in Villupuram district, is also set to get a change of face.
Then there is the Manora Fort, standing tall along the coast in Thanjavur district. It was built by King Serfoji-II to commemorate the triumph of the British over Napolean Bonaparte. The 13th century monument, Sri Naganatha Swamy Temple, located in Thanjavur, is another structure to get a facelift.
The Governor House in Tharangambadi, known as Tranquebar, located near Nagapattinam district, too is part of the project. Udhayagiri Fort in Puliyoorkurichy attracts visitors from several places, along with De-Lannoy Tomb. Two other structures with historical importance—Kattabomman Fort in Panchalankurichy and Marudupandiyar Fort in Sivaganga—will also undergo conservation works.
The attractive Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal in Madurai and Thanjavur Palace are the other two protected monuments to be renovated. The protective measures include fencing, marking of boundaries and extension of the structure’s longevity.