Tenders floated for Cauvery riverfront project

Tiruchi Corporation has invited tenders for the development of a major recreational space along the banks of the Cauvery in the city.

The riverfront park will be undertaken in two phases to create a recreational zone and a dedicated space for pilgrims to perform rituals on the ghats, catering to the demands of the residents.

The project will be developed on two stretches along the Cauvery at an estimated cost of ₹50.47 crore, funded primarily through assistance from KfW Bank of Germany, along with additional allocations sanctioned under the Capital Grant Funds and the Corporation’s General Funds. An additional ₹2.38 crore has been sanctioned for appointing an agency to maintain the facilities for five years.

Around a 1.5-km stretch between the Tiruchi-Chennai national highway bridge and railway track on Odathurai Road on the southern bank of the river, and a 750-metre stretch on the northern bank between Amma Mandapam and Geethapuram Ghats. The project would be completed within two years from the commencement of work.

According to the tender notification, the last date for submission of proposals is March 3. The work is expected to begin in the coming weeks after the contract is awarded. Officials said preliminary work is likely to be launched before the enforcement of the model code of conduct for the Assembly elections.

As per the plan, the civic body will develop a walking track along the riverbank with granite benches and vintage street lights, and create dedicated spaces for meditation. A children’s park, yoga hall, amphitheatre for cultural events, and a watchtower are proposed at an estimated cost of ₹24.47 crore.

The phase II of the project, estimated at ₹26 crore, will cover a 750-metre stretch between Amma Mandapam and Geethapuram in Srirangam, a prominent site where devotees perform rituals and take a holy dip. The plan includes bathing showers, restrooms, and designated spaces for pilgrims to conduct rituals in an organised manner.