Foundation stone laid for MGR birth centenary arch

Chennai: The work to erect an attractive ‘mega’ arch to commemorate the birth centenary of the iconic leader and founder of AIADMK, M. G. Ramachandran (MGR as he was popularly known), commenced on Thursday. 

Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami laid the foundation stone for the construction of the 52 ft high and 66 ft wide arch.

The decorative structure will come up near the public works department (PWD) headquarters on arterial Kamarajar Salai on the Marina where the memorial of MGR is located.

 The foundation stone was laid, amid the chanting of Vedic hymns and special pujas were also performed. The Chief Minister had in June last year informed the Assembly under Rule 110 to construct the arch for MGR. The arch is coming up at a cost of Rs 2.52 crore.

The ruling AIADMK celebrated the birth centenary of its founder and former Chief Minister last year on a massive scale. Recipient of Bharat Ratna, MGR carved a unique name in state politics after he broke away from the DMK following differences with its chief M. Karunanidhi and founded the AIADMK in 1972. He stormed to power in 1977, and ruled the state till his death in 1987.

Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal, Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam, Ministers, MLAs, and senior officials participated.