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80% of Semmozhi Poonga works completed in Coimbatore

80% of Semmozhi Poonga works completed in Coimbatore

The Hindu14 hours ago
The Coimbatore Corporation is racing against time to complete phase one works of the ₹167.25-crore Semmozhi Poonga project, coming up on 45 acres at the Central Prison Grounds in Gandhipuram. The civic body officials said that 80% of the project has been completed.
The botanical garden and related infrastructure have reached 83% progress, while the convention centre has also advanced to 83%. Pipelines carrying treated water from the Ukkadam Sewage Treatment Plant and the ground-level parking facility have been completed.
A dedicated bus shelter, designed to reflect key features of the park, is to be completed by mid-July.
Themed gardens
The park will feature 23 themed gardens, an experience centre, artificial waterfall, cafeteria, retail outlets, and a 500-seat open-air theatre. The convention centre is being built to seat 1,000 people and will house a conference hall, guest lounges, and related facilities. The parking area will accommodate 453 cars, 10 buses and 1,000 two-wheelers, with electric vehicle charging stations.
Other facilities include a 4,000 sq. ft. terrarium, a 42-metre-high Ferris wheel, and a one-kilometre zipline, which is planned to be installed post-inauguration.
Accessibility features include battery-operated vehicles, wheelchairs, and audio-enabled glasses for visually impaired visitors. Information boards with QR codes and barcodes will provide plant species details.
According to sources, Principal Secretary and CRRT Member Secretary Rajendra Ratnoo recently inspected the site. Following a review chaired by the Chief Secretary on October 26, 2024, the Corporation was directed to finalise the Business and Operational Plan before inauguration and place it before the council. The formation of the Semmozhi Poonga Management Committee has also been instructed.
Corporation Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran said the works are expected to be completed within 45 days.
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80% of Semmozhi Poonga works completed in Coimbatore
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