CM inaugurates India’s first glass bridge over sea in Kanniyakumari

A laser show in progress at the newly constructed glass bridge connecting Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Tiruvalluvar Statue in Kanniyakumari on Monday night.
| Photo Credit: A. Shaikmohideen

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Monday inaugurated India’s first glass bridge over the sea, connecting Tiruvalluvar Statue and Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari.

As part of the silver jubilee celebrations of the Tiruvalluvar Statue installation, the State government has organised various programmes in Kanniyakumari, including officially naming of the towering statue as “Statue of Wisdom”.

| Video Credit:
SHAIKMOHIDEEN A

The statue, which was unveiled on January 1, 2000, by the then Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Designed by renowned sculptor V. Ganapathi Sthapathi, the statue stands at a combined height of 133 feet, which denotes the 133 chapters of Tirukkural.

Weighing around 7,000 tonnes, the statue has endured the test of time, surviving even the devastating 2004 tsunami.

Ferries operated by Poompuhar Shipping Corporation transport visitors to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial whenever the tides are favourable. However, the rough sea and low tides often prevent the ferries from docking near the Tiruvalluvar Statue, leaving the visitors to look at the statue only from Vivekananda Rock Memorial.

To address this issue, the government decided to construct a bridge connecting the two structures, which eventually led to the construction of India’s first glass bridge over the sea, officials said.

Built at a cost of ₹37 crore, the 10-metre-wide bridge spans 77 metres, allowing the visitors to walk safely between the two iconic landmarks while watching the sea underneath.

The CM also visited a sand sculpture of Tiruvalluvar and garlanded the Tiruvalluvar Statue as a mark of respect. He also distributed special awards to 25 Tamil enthusiasts for their active promotion of the principles of Tirukkural.

Later, a laser show was organised, enthralling the visitors. Though there were some glitches caused due to rain during the show, the people enjoyed and appreciated it.

Published – December 30, 2024 09:55 pm IST

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