The Marina is all set to get a makeover with a host of new attractions, including a light and sound show, narrating the historical, cultural and civic uniqueness of Chennai. The revamp is part of linking the State’s beaches to the Swadesh Darshan scheme of the Central government.
The scheme offers funding for development of tourism infrastructure. The first phase will be restricted to the Marina.
“The infrastructure on the beach will be redesigned to ignite children’s imagination. The light and sound show will be the best in the country,” said an official.
The consultant appointed by the tourism department has planned various kinds of tourism-friendly infrastructure on the Marina to improve aesthetics and attract tourists. However, authorities are expected to suggest changes to suit the civic and social aspects of the city.
Officials of the Chennai Corporation will hold a meeting with tourism department officials to discuss key aspects of the project this week.“Chennai was the first municipal corporation in India. So, the show should narrate tales recounting the city’s history in an attractive way,’” said an official.
Focus on health
Civic issues such as mosquito menace or garbage pile-ups in the vicinity of light and sound shows have put off many tourists in other parts of the country. So the Corporation is planning to focus more on public health along the Marina beach to ensure tourists watch it.
The beach makeover will be restricted to the 3.1 km stretch from Light House to the mouth of the Cooum. “We may shift the existing structures on the beach, including toilets,” said an official. The first phase of the project may cost ₹50 crore.
The earlier proposal of the Corporation to give a facelift to the southern part of the Marina and Neelankarai, Palavakkam and Kottivakam was shelved following opposition from fishermen and environment activists.
