Latest news with #UngalThoguthiyilMudhalvar


The Hindu
07-07-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Bridge construction linking Tirumarugal and Kilvelur gains momentum
The construction of a ₹12-crore bridge connecting Nagapattinam and Kilvelur taluks has picked up pace, with nearly 70% of the work completed. Once finished, the bridge will serve as a vital link between several interior villages on both sides of the Vettar, easing travel and improving access for thousands of residents. The bridge connects villages such as Anaimanagalam and Kohur on the Kilvelur side with Okkur and Venagadangal on the Tirumarugal side. Until now, commuters had to take a detour of about 8 km to reach the other side of the river. With the new bridge, travel time will be significantly reduced, and essential services such as ambulances and transportation of agricultural goods will be streamlined. 'This was one of my key demands under the Ungal Thoguthiyil Mudhalvar initiative, and the State government responded positively,' said Kilvelur MLA V.P. Nagai Maali. He told The Hindu that the bridge would establish a long-awaited direct connection between Kilvelur and Nagapattinam taluks. 'This was a demand voiced by the interior villages for decades, and it is finally being fulfilled,' he said. 'Our Okkur village is almost like an island. Though the other side was nearby, the canal made it impossible to connect with Tirumarugal. In my childhood, we had to swim across. Pregnant women, the elderly, and even ambulances faced enormous challenges in reaching hospitals,' said L. Rajendran, a resident of Okkur Panchayat. Sources said the bridge work were expected to get completed in six months.


The Hindu
22-06-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Permanent library building nearing completion in Kilvelur taluk
After functioning from a temporary structure for over 60 years, the Kilvelur Taluk Branch Library is finally set to have a permanent building. Located near the Kilvelur Taluk Government Hospital, the new ground plus one building is under construction at an estimated cost of ₹1 crore. 'This was one of my key demands under the Ungal Thoguthiyil Mudhalvar initiative, and it was promptly approved by the State government,' said V.P. Nagai Maali, MLA of Kilvelur. He told The Hindu that the new building marks a significant upgrade from the existing setup, which lacked adequate space and essential infrastructure. He said the new library would be designed to cater to diverse users — from students to senior citizens — the upcoming library will feature modern amenities, including advanced computer facilities, a wide range of books and periodicals, and, notably, a dedicated study area for UPSC and TNPSC aspirants. The special provision for competitive exam preparation is expected to benefit students across Kilvelur and nearby areas. Mr. Maali said that among the taluk libraries in the district, the new Kilvelur facility will be one of the most modern, accessible, and academically oriented, enhancing both footfall and local interest in public learning spaces. 'This library will not only meet local needs but will also emerge as a hub for academic engagement in the region,' he added. Official sources said construction was progressing as scheduled with completion expected within six months.