TN to have new Assembly complex in 18 months: Minister

Chennai, Oct 27 (UNI) Tamil Nadu would have its new Assembly complex in just 18 months time, Public Works Department Minister Duraimurugan said today.

In a brief chat with newspersons after participating in the ''Bhoomi Pooja'' for the new complex, he said the government had asked the East Coast Constructions (EEC), entrusted with the work, to complete the prestigious project in 18 months.

''We hope the EEC will complete the project in 18 months. We wish the company completes the project in 18 months,'' Mr Duraimurugan said adding the company had been advised to avoid cutting trees as far as possible.

After the State Cabinet cleared the project on October 21, the EEC was given the work order yesterday, following which, the ''Bhoomi Pooja'' was held this morning, marking the commencement of the Rs 425 crore project at Omandurar Government Estate on Anna Salai.

The government decided to build a new complex following Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's announcement to this effect.

In his acceptance speech to the felicitations on the golden jubilee of his legislative career, the Chief Minister had said the government, responding to the plea made by the floor leaders, would construct the new Assembly complex at a suitable site.

The new complex is being constructed at Government Estate, leaving structures such as Rajaji Mantapam, Kalaivanar Arangam and new residential complex of the Members of Legislative Assembly untouched.

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