Thiruvananthapuram: The tourism department has come up with a comprehensive project to save Shangumugham, the favourite tourist spot in the state capital, which is in ruins following severe sea erosion.
The department is planning a slew of projects to give a facelift to the spot.
A top official said that administrative sanctions had been given to three projects, which will facilitate hundreds of visitors coming to the beach. They include beachfront development, cultural hub development, and construction of parking and recreational hub.
The projects worth Rs 14.6 crore will take off in December.
"Shangumugham is a place we cannot ignore. Sea erosion has taken a toll on the spot, and the number of visitors has come down drastically. The beach and the associated infrastructure are in a dilapidated condition. All the projects have been finalised, and the work orders will be issued by December first week. The plan is to finish the entire project within 18 months," said the official.
The authorities are planning to revamp two parks - the Tsunami Park and the Chacha Nehru Park.
"We have set aside Rs 4.99 crore for the total renovation of the parks and the associated facilities. We are also planning an amphitheatre. The existing one is unscientifically located," said the official.
The construction of 16 shops for rehabilitating the vendors is going on. An official of the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) said that a scientific study on sea erosion should be carried out.
"The area is in the dark as we had to take out the high mast light due to fear of collapse because of severe sea erosion. We are planning for strong basements to avoid such incidents," said the DTPC official.
