The Archaeological Survey of India has taken a series of steps for providing basic amenities to the pilgrims, tourists and devotees visiting the rock-cut temples of Sri Sathyagiriswarar and Sri Sathyamoorthy Perumal at Tirumayam.
The action comes in the wake of the oft-repeated plea from the public particularly foreign tourists visiting the ancient monument built during the Nayak era.
Inadequate drinking water supply proved to be a major problem for the devotees and tourists and the ASI has set up two Reverse Osmosis plants, each at a cost of Rs. 50,000.
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While one plant has been set up at the temple-bell mandapam of Sri Sathyagriswarar Temple, another has been provided on the fort office premises.
“Open defecation has been another problem on the fort premises in the absence of toilet facility. So, the ASI has built a toilet block on the eastern side of Sri Meyyar Temple and near the Pushkarani. The work which was taken up recently will be completed by the end of March,” says the source.
The block comprises three units — one each for men, women and differently-abled persons.
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The sprawling area near the Pushkarani is not being properly utilised.
The ASI has planned to set up a park on an area of three acres.
“Saplings of horticultural plants and ornamental plants will be planted. As the site is located close to the ancient monument, saplings with less penetration of roots alone will be selected,” the source said.
Apart from beautifying the fort, the initiative aims at eliminating the entry of anti-social elements particularly at night.
The ASI has set up a metallic fence all around from the Pushkarni up to Karuppar Temple to check any trespassing by anti-social elements.