Continued from

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=326529

----------------------------------
Thanks MaduraiVeeran for pointing out the right thread. I happened to see your private message only today.

In line with Chennai and Coimbatore, Madurai gets a 1000 acre satellite city and the work will start in the current year.


http://www.dinakaran.co.in/epapertamilmurasu/firstpage.aspx#

Atleast in this thread please stick to Madurai only. pls do not include tuticorin, tirunelveli etc.

Thanks!

Excellent news Selvam just after opening the new topic.

Here is the link,

http://www.dinakaran.co.in/epapertamilmurasu/showxml.aspx?id=22447&code=20509

Hope this works.

Atleast in this thread please stick to Madurai only. pls do not include tuticorin, tirunelveli etc.

Thanks!

I agree with you. Let's stick to a limited region. May be areas like Virudhunagar, Manamadurai, Dindigul etc., can be considered for this thread. This will allow us to have concentrated discussions on these areas.

Are we gonna have another thread for tuticorin/Tirunelveli, Thanjavur etc...
I feel this thread should be for whole of southern tn.

Are we gonna have another thread for tuticorin/Tirunelveli, Thanjavur etc...
I feel this thread should be for whole of southern tn.

Guys i think

Madurai can represent south TN (When Trinelveli or Tuticorin projects shoots up we can split south TN into further divisions)

Trichy can represent middle eastern TN and

Coimbatore can represent middle western TN.

Google searches for talent in Madurai

MADURAI : Hundreds of college students in Madurai who use Google to search for jobs find the multinational Internet search engine coming to them instead.
Officials from Google India's office in Hyderabad quizzed some final year arts and science students of Fatima College here on Friday in search of talent. A written and online test of creativity, English and communication skills was conducted. They plan to search for "as many as possible" candidates among them.
The students have been offered salaries in the range of Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 to design and edit advertisements at Google's facility at Hyderabad after their graduation next year.
"It is a dream for us, as we never thought of trying for a job in Google. We are happy that arts and science students get the opportunity together," said P.Tamilarasi, a final year student, who appeared for the tests and is waiting to hear if Google will pick her up.
The Principal Ignatius Mary was happy that many first generation students in the college got an exposure to a global major.
The College Placement Officer R.Aravind said that 254 out of 584 students who wrote the tests were short-listed for another round of test in the next few days.
Job aspirant G.Gemima quoted the Google team as saying that creativity would score over everything else and it wanted the `better out of the best.'

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/19/stories/2006081915820100.htm

That true i agree with you. There are so many projects taking place in and around madurai and it would be nice to highlight them with more specific thread like this. The thread representing the madurai and trichy region could be removed.

The link to the old thread on Madurai and trichy region

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=326529

In line with Chennai and Coimbatore, Madurai gets a 1000 acre satellite city and the work will start in the current year.


http://www.dinakaran.co.in/epapertamilmurasu/firstpage.aspx#

Its a great news selvam. Madurai gonna have a satellite town at 1000 acres of land. In the madurai and trichy region thread it was all the way represented by madurai projects. So lets concentrate here only on projects of madurai and surrounding regions.

In this thread lets include projects from madurai and surrounding districts theni, virudhunagar and sivaganga.

CHENNAI: The State Government will implement a massive housing scheme at an estimated cost of Rs. 3200 crore under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission to make Chennai, Madurai and Coimbatore slum-free cities.

Work on the project will commence in 2007 and it will be completed in seven years, Housing and Slum Clearance Minister Suba Thangavelan told the Assembly on Friday. The Centre and the State would the project cost equally.

He was replying to demands pertaining to his Ministry. A total of 1.84 lakh tenements would be constructed; 1.12 lakh tenements in Chennai, 60,257 in Madurai and 12,730 in Coimbatore.

The Minister said the 12th Central Finance Commission had sanctioned Rs. 79.10 crore for slum development in Chennai and other towns in the current financial year. The amount would be utilised for construction of tenements dovetailing reconstruction of dilapidated tenements in Chennai city and other municipal corporations.

Multi-storied tenements

The Government also proposed to construct multi-storied tenements for 18,174 tsunami-hit families in Chennai city at a cost of Rs. 300 crore. These would be built at Tiruvotttiyur in North Chennai and from Nochikuppam to Srinivasapuram and Okkium Thoraipakkam in South Chennai. To avoid congestion and haphazard growth in Chennai and Madurai, the Government planned to create self-contained satellite towns. These would fulfil housing needs of people. In the first phase, the Tamil Nadu Housing Board planned to create satellite town near Chennai on 1,500 acres at an estimated cost of Rs. 500 crore, and in Madurai on 1,000 acres.

The Government would revive the environmental improvement of urban slums scheme, which was discontinued in 2003-04. Under the programme, Rs. 10 crore would be spent on improving basic amenities such as roads, street lights and public fountains in various parts of the State.

As the demand for houses was on the rise, the Housing Board had planned to develop plots and construct houses and multi-storied tenements totalling 2,062 throughout the State in the current financial year at a cost of Rs.166 crore. The Minister assured that steps would be taken to hand over the title deeds to those who had paid the full cost of Housing Board houses.

For the benefit of people in rural areas, the Tamil Nadu Cooperative Housing Federation was planning to tie up with nationalised banks and obtain a loan of Rs. 100 crore for providing housing loans.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/19/stories/2006081917180600.htm

In this thread lets include projects from madurai and surrounding districts theni, virudhunagar and sivaganga.

I think we should include Dindigul also as some of the projects like in the Nilakottai Industrial estate might fall under Dindigul but might be related to Madurai.

-----------
Hope to hear more about the TNHB's plan for a 1000 acre satellite town. It's really a great move as part of JNNURM. Hope this place comes under the underdeveloped site to create a well balanced development.

I think we should include Dindigul also as some of the projects like in the Nilakottai Industrial estate might fall under Dindigul but might be related to Madurai.

-----------
Hope to hear more about the TNHB's plan for a 1000 acre satellite town. It's really a great move as part of JNNURM. Hope this place comes under the underdeveloped site to create a well balanced development.

I missed out the dindigul district. I was thinking of including the districts surrounding madurai. So this thread will include districts madurai, dindigul, theni, sivaganga and virudhunagar.

CHENNAI: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has taken up major development works in the Southern Region covering Tiruchi, Madurai and Coimbatore airports besides Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Kozhikode in Kerala and Mangalore in Karnataka.

Works at Madurai airport

Referring to Madurai airport expansion work undertaken at a cost of Rs.24 crore, Dr. Ramalingam said the runway re-carpeting and extension work was in progress apart from expansion of the apron and a new fire station were also under way. The architectural planning for the new terminal building has been completed.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/19/stories/2006081910540500.htm

Works at Madurai airport

Referring to Madurai airport expansion work undertaken at a cost of Rs.24 crore, Dr. Ramalingam said the runway re-carpeting and extension work was in progress apart from expansion of the apron and a new fire station were also under way. The architectural planning for the new terminal building has been completed.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/19/stories/2006081910540500.htm

Thats a great news. The plan for the new terminal at madurai airport is ready. The airport could have a better look and would be well placed to handle the extra traffic projected in future and also would be well placed to become an international or customs airport.

Hope to hear more about the TNHB's plan for a 1000 acre satellite town. It's really a great move as part of JNNURM. Hope this place comes under the underdeveloped site to create a well balanced development.

In the recent years most of the development in madurai has been towards north of madurai. I hope this satellite town is also established in this region.

In the recent years most of the development in madurai has been towards north of madurai. I hope this satellite town is also established in this region.

Wouldn't that lead to an unbalanced growth on one side? They are building this new town citing the hapazhard growth of the city. So, I feel they should really look into some area which is relatively underdeveloped and build such township there. Otherwise, I am not against any area as such.

CHENNAI: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has taken up major development works in the Southern Region covering Tiruchi, Madurai and Coimbatore airports besides Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Kozhikode in Kerala and Mangalore in Karnataka.

Works at Madurai airport

Referring to Madurai airport expansion work undertaken at a cost of Rs.24 crore, Dr. Ramalingam said the runway re-carpeting and extension work was in progress apart from expansion of the apron and a new fire station were also under way. The architectural planning for the new terminal building has been completed.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/19/stories/2006081910540500.htm

I thought the runway expansion work would have finished by now. It looks like its still going on. What is re-carepeting, can someone clarify? Thanks in advance.

Once the AAI's proposal to construct a new terminal building comes into effect, the demand to make it an international terminal will gain momentum, as the building has provision to accommodate customs and immigration facilities.

Indian Airlines will be the major beneficiary of the extension of the runway from the existing 6000 feet to 7500 feet as its A 320 flight can be operated with full capacity. At present, with a shorter runway, the flight is restricted to take a maximum of 110 passengers as against the full capacity of 145

http://www.hindu.com/2005/04/14/stories/2005041413950300.htm


With the increase in runway to 7500 feet airbus 320 can be operated at full capacity. Re-carpeting could mean strengthening of the runway.

Referring to Madurai airport expansion work undertaken at a cost of Rs.24 crore, Dr. Ramalingam said the runway re-carpeting and extension work was in progress apart from expansion of the apron and a new fire station were also under way. The architectural planning for the new terminal building has been completed.

The increase in the length of the runway to 7500 feet was initiated long time back and i think has been completed already. This extension of runway could mean increasing to 9000 feet in lenght.

Yeah, A320 can fly without load penalty. But is "Indian" planning to connect more flights/routes to Madurai? I hope this runway is not extended to fulfill their only flight. Though it will benefit better cargo movement and for more airlines to look into Madurai, it's time IA showed some real care towards Madurai which is sadly neglected by them.

Can someone highlight the facilities inside Madurai airport right now with your flying experience?

The increase in the length of the runway to 7500 feet was initiated long time back and i think has been completed already. This extension of runway could mean increasing to 9000 feet in lenght.

Hi Madurai Veeran,
The approval so far is only upto 7500ft. There is no word about extending it to 9000ft except the demands from various quarters. I think AAI will take more time to do that. They would like to see some progress with this expansion and see how it improves.

A new terminal is expected to hold 500 passengers at one time as the current one can hold only 100 I guess. Can someone provide more details on the current situation or about the past?

http://www.dinakaran.co.in/epaperdinakaran/1982006/1908nambi03%20-%20clr.jpg

Cardiology department is going to be constructed at the Anna Bus Stand site at Rs.50 Cr. Corporation has given the land.

Picture - Courtesy Dinakaran

http://img154.imageshack.us/img154/3959/mmc1gx1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Cardiology department is going to be constructed at the Anna Bus Stand site at Rs.50 Cr. Corporation has given the land.


After shifting the anna bus stand to integrated bus stand, the land has been lying vacant for a long time. This would be a nice way to use this prime property. The Rajaji government hospital which is crowded and is in dire need for space could be fulfilled by this move.

The Minister for Hindu religion and charity K.R Periya Karupan said that the cable car link between kodaikanal and palani would be taken into consideration.

Source : Dinamani

The Minister for Hindu religion and charity K.R Periya Karupan said that the cable car link between kodaikanal and palani would be taken into consideration.

Source : Dinamani

TN to introduce new tourism policy

To promote remote destinations, rail-cum-road tours

Preeti Kannan and Reema Sisodia - Chennai

The government of Tamil Nadu, under the leadership of state tourism minister N Suresh Rajan, is working towards framing a new, comprehensive tourism policy expected to be ready in a few months along with a master plan to promote tourism.

The government also intends to promote lesser known destinations like Pitchavaram, Yercaud, Kuttralam, Suruli Malai, Kazhugu Malai, Kolli Hills and Yelagiri, the closest hill station to Chennai. For this project, the department has asked district collectors to identify similar spots for further development, thereby decongesting hill stations like Ooty and Kodaikanal. As an extension to this, Kodaikanal and Palani will get cable cars at a cost of Rs 12 crore each. Sanwat Ram, commissioner of tourism, government of Tamil Nadu and CMD of Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) added that the state has also expressed interest in popularising eco-tourism spots with an increased private sector participation.

http://www.expresstravelworld.com/200608/market15.shtml

Madurai MP Mohan's demand for helicopter service in Madurai to connect Tourism places.

http://www.dinamalar.com/2006aug20/general_tn12.asp

MADURAI: "The integrity of your work, word and the value system were factors that made us select this particular project," said Boon Chin Tan, Senior Associate Director, International Group of Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) of India.

She was speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of Madurai YMCA International Centre, to be constructed at an outlay of about Rs. 3 crore, on August 19.

With Madurai poised to become an Information Technology hub, corporate industries would also be visiting the city and they could hold conferences in this centre, he added. He also thanked Ms. Boon, who is in-charge of Asia, for having approved their request.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/20/stories/2006082014100300.htm

Madurai MP Mohan's demand for helicopter service in Madurai to connect Tourism places.

http://www.dinamalar.com/2006aug20/general_tn12.asp


Helicopter service will be a good idea to commute foreign toursit to places like Kodaikanal, Thekkady, etc. The service could be made open for tourists choice of trip and destination.

The plan for rope cars between Palani and Kodaikanal will be very attractive. Extending this line either as a rope car to Madurai or with land train to Madurai from Palani will make sense. Hopefully the quality and the safety of the rope car would be in international standard.

Madurai, August 20: The Centre should introduce helicopter services linking important tourist spots like Rameswaram, Kodaikanal and Thekkady in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu, CPM Member of Parliament P Mohan has said.


In a release here today, the MP has requested the Central government to start the helicopter service to attract foreign tourists and foreign exchange.


Many of the Tamils living abroad would like to visit the famous Lord Muruga temple in Palani and other temples in the region. But, it would take at least two days to cover all these places by road.


If a helicopter service was started with Madurai as the centre point, it would attract a lot of tourists, he said. (Agencies)

http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID=%7B15332C8D%2D8331%2D4783%2DA2C5%2D113C6E7F1D42%7D&CATEGORYNAME=TAMIL+NADU

Can anybody list the IT Companies in Madurai

HCL Plans to Promote Convergence Outlets

By Sharmee Roy
New Delhi, Aug 21, 2006
HCL Infosystems plans to explore more opportunities with new retail concepts and also strengthen its existing retail outlets.

Providing more details on its retail initiatives, Rajender Kumar, executive vice president, HCL Infosystems, said, "Retailing in the country is booming with IT retailing coming of age. We were the pioneers when it came to retailing. Today our focus remains on retailing, with convergence as the basis of our outlets."

Currently, with a partner network of 3,500, HCL has 550 to 600 partners into retail with most of them retailing desktops and notebooks. Now with home entertainment gaining momentum, HCL has plans of promoting convergence outlets.

Kumar informed, "We would enable our partners to retail products ranging from LCD projectors to entertainment PC, gaming PC to wireless connectors, promoting more of convergence with home entertainment coming on the forefront. It would depend on the city and also the retail infrastructure available with them."

HCL has recently opened a retail outlet in Gurgaon and in the next two weeks the manufacturer will open its retail outlet in Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Chennai. It plans to set up about 100 digital lifestyle stores in the country in another 12 months.

Meanwhile, HCL will also try and upgrade its 600-odd existing retail partners to offer complete digital lifestyle range. The company also has plans to set some of these lifestyle outlets in B and C class cities like Panipat, Karnal, Udaipur, Kanpur, Siliguri, Madurai, etc.

Besides, HCL plans to enhance its channel presence in the North-East. "We have 20 partners in the North-East and plan to increase this number to about 50. We also plan to have a retail outlet in Guwahati by next quarter," added Kumar.


http://www.channeltimes.com/channeltimes/jsp/article.jsp?article_id=75308&cat_id=748

As part of the bridges and Rail Over bridges all over TN, a ROB is planned to be constructed at Palanganatham. This also figured under JNNURM.

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DND20060821222248&Title=Districts+Page&lTitle=U%F4YhPeLs&Topic=0

As per the above report, 3 more fire stations to come under Madurai division at Tirupparankundram, Kanjarampettai and High Court Bench.

----
Apart from that report, there is also a fire station being built at Madurai airport.

As part of the bridges and Rail Over bridges all over TN, a ROB is planned to be constructed at Palanganatham. This also figured under JNNURM.

Where is this ? I know that there is already a ROB in Bye-pass over Madurai-Theni rail line.
Is it just extension of this bridege to six/four lane, because this will come under 6 laning of bypass between Palanganatham to Vilangudi?

Can anybody list the IT Companies in Madurai

Honeywell is the only software company present in MDU.
But there are some small web based companies present like Dotcom info way etc..

Where is this ? I know that there is already a ROB in Bye-pass over Madurai-Theni rail line.
Is it just extension of this bridege to six/four lane, because this will come under 6 laning of bypass between Palanganatham to Vilangudi?


This ROB will be towards TVS Lakshmi school side.

This ROB will be towards TVS Lakshmi school side.

Ok, this sounds like a better connection to the airport from the byepass road.

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DND20060821222248&Title=Districts+Page&lTitle=U%F4YhPeLs&Topic=0

As per the above report, 3 more fire stations to come under Madurai division at Tirupparankundram, Kanjarampettai and High Court Bench.

----
Apart from that report, there is also a fire station being built at Madurai airport.

A Slightl different report,
Is the Madurai Bench protected against fire?

Mohamed Imranullah S.

"No provision for fire station missing even in master plan"





MADURAI: Imagine a fire breaking out at the palatial building of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, situated at Ulaganeri panchayat on the suburbs of the Temple City, during working hours on Wednesday.

Suddenly a fire alarm goes off and hundreds of people occupying the 12 court halls (spread over a plinth area of 15,209 square metres) and the connected administrative block (with a plinth area of 22,929 square metres.) go haywire. The entire building falls prey to the blaze in a flash.

In the midst of this commotion, a voice screams aloud to call the firemen but nobody turns up because the State Government is yet to give formal sanction for constructing a fire station on the court premises.

While others are busy running helter-skelter or seeking help, one brave youngster finds that the building has modern fire fighting equipment such as water dispensers and fire extinguishers. He wants to use them but does not know how to operate.

Helping hand


Luckily, another person, a retired fireman, extends a helping hand. The hosepipe is removed out of the box, but the rusty valve refuses to give way due to lack of maintenance since its installation two years ago when the Bench was inaugurated.

After a prolonged battle, the valve opens but the water from the overhead water tank seeps out of the nozzle instead of gushing out with force. The reason: water pipelines had gathered dust and jammed. Adding to their woes, a tiny tot faints and there is no ambulance on the Bench premises to carry the child to the nearby hospital.

On information, Fire and Rescue Services personnel from the Madurai city limits — nearly 10 kilometres from the Bench — and from Melur — situated more than 20 kilometres on the northern side — are rushed to the Bench. Even before they could arrive, the fire had done the maximum damage.

Though a fictitious story, the delay in establishing a fire station on the premises, along with the non-maintenance of existing equipment have made the court building unsafe during fire accidents. This story has figured repeatedly in the discussions along the corridors of the Bench, with some fear too.

When contacted, the Deputy Director of Fire Service, Southern Region, M. Shahul Hameed, said that the planners and authorities should have constructed a structure for a fire station, which was missing even in the master plan of the Bench premises. Subsequently, a proposal to set up a fire station has been sent to the Government and is under consideration. "Once the construction comes up, we will immediately deploy our personnel," he said. That can take at least a year.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/23/stories/2006082304220200.htm

http://www.dinamalar.com/2006aug23/district/madurai.asp

As per the above report ,work has started on the NHAI 4 lane bypass from Thoppur to Samayanallur via Thankannkulam. Work is expected to complete by 2008. A flyover is being planned at Kappalur. There will be 14 Underground passes on this road. Work has started on things other than the major flyover and bridges.

The four-laning work along the Tiruchi-Madurai stretch of National Highway 45-B is progressing as per the plan of NHAI. The entire four-lane for a length of 124.7 km is being laid along a new alignment with geographical corrections in two packages:

Tiruchi - Thuvarankurichi (60.9 km), and Thuvarankurichi-Madurai (63.8 km).

The work, warranting duration of 30 months, started during February 2006, and is slated for completion by August 2008.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/23/stories/2006082320530300.htm

The Madurai - Trichy stretch as per plan would be 4 laned by August 2008. As per news report the work on 4 laning of Trichy - Tindivanam stretch has commenced and slated to be finished before August 2009.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has commenced work on four-laning of 204 km Tindivanam-Tiruchi stretch of the National Highway 45 at a cost of Rs. 1,200 crore. The work will take a maximum of three years for completion.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/23/stories/2006082320530300.htm


When these both stretches are completed there would be 4 lane highways between Madurai and Chennai. This would bring down the travelling time considerably.

AAI ready to prepare feasibility report on Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Aeronautical Science and Training and Pilots Academy at Sriperumbudur.

Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi sends letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, seeking his intervention to expedite the project.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/23/stories/2006082318380800.htm

Could this be a blow to the Aviation University at Madurai planned by the previous government.

Could this be a blow to the Aviation University at Madurai planned by the previous government.

It is highly likely, due to petty politics. :ohno:

http://www.dailythanthi.com/article.asp?NewsID=279593&disdate=8/23/2006&advt=2

This report states the same as the other Tamil daily on the new fire stations.

http://www.dinamalar.com/2006aug23/district/madurai.asp
A flyover is being planned at Kappalur.

Where will this flyover come up?. Is it the place where the ring road intersects the Madurai - Virudhunagar NH . This intersection already has a wide bridge.

Where will this flyover come up?. Is it the place where the ring road intersects the Madurai - Virudhunagar NH . This intersection already has a wide bridge.

Hi Madurai Veeran,
I think it should come near that place where the current ring road starts with a mini flyover.

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/3584/maduraibypassstartinglr1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://epaper.dinamalar.com/artMailDisp.aspx?article=23_08_2006_101_010_001&typ=2&pub=356

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/8655/maduraibypass1fa7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://epaper.dinamalar.com/artMailDisp.aspx?article=23_08_2006_103_012_001&typ=2&pub=356

Good to see that they are planning to grow trees after construction. It will be better if they plant those now itself.

Here is the news related to this,
http://epaper.dinamalar.com/artMailDisp.aspx?article=23_08_2006_103_013&typ=1&pub=356

Thirumangalam maravankulam road looks like it goes through a desserted area, may be they should start planting trees on the sides.

To give a filip to the industries in the Southern districts, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi announced in the state assembly today that an industrial park would be set up near Madurai through SIPCOT.

http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/401200608231721.htm

Thirumangalam maravankulam road looks like it goes through a desserted area, may be they should start planting trees on the sides.

Maravankulam is on the outskirts of Tirumangalam towards Madurai. Maravankulam-Kappalur is on the NH-7. The bypass starts from Thoppur as per the reports. I guess, Thoppur-Thanakkankulam-Vilacherry area will be sans trees. They need to plant them now itself so that those can grow to a certain level when the road gets opened up.

To give a filip to the industries in the Southern districts, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi announced in the state assembly today that an industrial park would be set up near Madurai through SIPCOT.

http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/401200608231721.htm

Good to see that a SIPCOT is being planned near Madurai. Hope its something different from the Textile Park/IT Park mentioned earlier. Hope to see good industries coming up in SIPCOT.

SEZ for tanneries to come up
Industrial park in Madurai planned


The Sriperumbudur and Oragadam industrial parks of SIPCOT would be expanded, Mr. Karunanidhi said. For this, 2,000 acres would be acquired. SIPCOT would also establish an industrial park in Madurai. A special economic zone along with an integrated industrial park would be set up by the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation in the backward district of Perambalur. It would result in an investment of Rs.5,000 crore in a phased manner and create several thousand jobs.


http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/24/stories/2006082408840100.htm

The policy will comprehensively cover all sectors of the IT industry

Plans to set up IT parks in Madurai, Tiruchi, Salem and Tirunelveli
Separate policy for IT hardware manufacturing, biotechnology


CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu will soon get new industrial and information technology policies and revive the IT task force, Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, who also holds the IT portfolio, told the Assembly on Wednesday.

The State Government has decided to formulate the new IT policy with a view to consolidate the gains made so far and propel the industry into a higher growth trajectory. The policy would comprehensively cover all sectors of the IT industry.

A separate policy for IT hardware manufacturing and biotechnology would also be formulated. The IT task force would have representatives of the IT industry and the objective behind constituting it was to identify the infrastructure requirements. Replying to the debate on the demand for grants to the IT Department, the Chief Minister said there were plans to establish information technology parks in Madurai, Tiruchi, Salem and Tirunelveli. The decision to set up IT parks in other cities, he explained, was taken with the objective of spreading the IT revolution that at present was concentrated around Chennai.
According to Mr. Karunanidhi, a second Tidel Park will be set up at Taramani in Chennai. The State Government in association with the Software Technology Parks of India would also establish an IT park in Coimbatore.

The State Government, the Chief Minister said, would provide exemption from the general and central sales tax "without any limit" on the sale of computers manufactured by companies with an investment exceeding Rs.100 crore in the SEZs in Tamil Nadu. This concession would be given for 10 years from the commencement of commercial production. The announcement comes in the wake of the Budget speech in which the Finance Minister said special concessions would be granted to companies setting up computer manufacturing facilities in the State. The incentives are for increasing the use of computers and making them affordable.

The Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, a national centre of excellence announced by the Union Human Resource Development Ministry, is to be located in Chennai.

Noting that the first phase of the IT Expressway project, to develop six lane road between Taramani and Siruseri, at a cost of Rs.205 crore was progressing, Mr. Karunanidhi said in the next phase similar work would be initiated over 25 km from Siruseri to Mahabalipuram.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/24/stories/2006082406350400.htm

http://epaper.dinamalar.com/artMailDisp.aspx?article=24_08_2006_015_005&typ=1&pub=356

http://epaper.dinamalar.com/artMailDisp.aspx?article=24_08_2006_015_005&typ=1&pub=356


Is it for the new extension at the Anna bus station land?

Yes Sir, this is going to be at the Anna bus stand.

Hi Friends,
It looks like Air Deccan is restoring the Bangalore-Madurai-Bangalore flight after 2 years with a different timings. This timing is better than last time. Hope it starts and becomes a successful one. It's a cheerful thing if it becomes true. As per the following, it starts on Oct 30th.

Flights departing from MADURAI
Select Date Departure Arrival Flight# Duration Fare (INR)
01-Nov-2006 IXM (MADURAI) BLR (BANGALORE) DN-106 1 HR 30 MIN 574.00

Time: 16:45 Time: 18:15 DYNAFare


Flights departing from BANGALORE
Select Date Departure Arrival Flight# Duration Fare (INR)
05-Nov-2006 BLR (BANGALORE) IXM (MADURAI) DN-105 1 HR 30 MIN 574.00

Time: 15:00 Time: 16:30 DYNAFare



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BANGALORE-MADURAI


DN-105 15:00 16:30 DAILY
30-Oct-06 31-Jan-07

MADURAI-BANGALORE


DN-106 16:45 18:15 DAILY
30-Oct-06 31-Jan-07

Hi Friends,
It looks like Air Deccan is restoring the Bangalore-Madurai-Bangalore flight after 2 years with a different timings. This timing is better than last time. Hope it starts and becomes a successful one. It's a cheerful thing if it becomes true. As per the following, it starts on Oct 30th.


Thats nice, then for Madurai NRIs Bangalore will become one more Chennai, meaning that they can fly via both places.
So how many in total, daily in and out bound flights are there from Madurai?

So how many in total, daily in and out bound flights are there from Madurai?

Taking into account the new developments such as Air Deccan's Bangalore bound flight and Paramounts 3rd daily flight from madurai there would be 8 in bound and 8 out bound flights. They are as follows :

1. Indian( 1 flight) - Madurai to Mumbai via Chennai
2. Jet Airways( 2 flights) - Madurai to Chennai
3. Air Deccan ( 2 flights) - Madurai to Chennai and Madurai to Bangalore
4. Paramount Airlines ( 2 flights) - Madurai to Bangalore via Chennai
( 1 flight) - not sure yet

Madurai, a destination to ponder: Infosys

MADURAI: Information technology major, Infosys Technologies, may look at Madurai as a destination among tier-II cities. Its co-founder and Joint Managing Director, S. Gopalakrishnan, assured a gathering of industrialists and students here on Saturday that "Madurai is a destination to look at."
Responding to a plea made in this regard by the District Collector T. Udhayachandran at a meeting organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry, Mr. Gopalakrishnan expressed the view that Madurai should develop a "cosmopolitan outlook" if it were to qualify as a preferred destination for IT companies. This was essential in the context of IT professionals having to work with other nationals. The infrastructure of the city should also match industry demands. Road and air connectivity was absolutely essential . The IT industry looked at good office space, hotels, ambience, recreation and shopping facilities. Mr. Gopalakrishnan said the existing infrastructure could be improved through public-private partnership. Incentives could invite investments but they would remain part of a package. The Infosys, he said, was now in five tier-II cities. The experience in some of the places was that the infrastructure failed to match industrial growth.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/27/stories/2006082721680100.htm

"Cosmopolitan Outlook" ...freaking jerks. If these corporate bullies want to expand their business, they have to adapt to teir two cities - given the attrition rates in the metros. In the meantime it be better if corporates like infosys try to stop acting more "modern" than the rest of India.

"Cosmopolitan Outlook" ...freaking jerks. If these corporate bullies want to expand their business, they have to adapt to teir two cities - given the attrition rates in the metros. In the meantime it be better if corporates like infosys try to stop acting more "modern" than the rest of India.

I think Madurai is alreay a cosmopolitan city, if the population of the city is slotted out based on Languages, there is a big population of Sourastra speaking people, Marvadis, Telugu speaking people and even Malayalis.
The population of all these section will out number the Tamils in Madurai. Just because all these people speak good Tamil, its not noticed.

Taking into account the new developments such as Air Deccan's Bangalore bound flight and Paramounts 3rd daily flight from madurai there would be 8 in bound and 8 out bound flights. They are as follows :

1. Indian( 1 flight) - Madurai to Mumbai via Chennai
2. Jet Airways( 2 flights) - Madurai to Chennai
3. Air Deccan ( 2 flights) - Madurai to Chennai and Madurai to Bangalore
4. Paramount Airlines ( 2 flights) - Madurai to Bangalore via Chennai
( 1 flight) - not sure yet

Also, Air Dravida is planning to connect Madurai. Air Deccan is planning to connect Madurai with Colombo(First international connection, if it happens in October as they mentioned earlier). So, there is a chance of two more daily flights to/from Madurai within the end of this year.

I think Madurai is alreay a cosmopolitan city, if the population of the city is slotted out based on Languages, there is a big population of Sourastra speaking people, Marvadis, Telugu speaking people and even Malayalis.
The population of all these section will out number the Tamils in Madurai. Just because all these people speak good Tamil, its not noticed.

I agree with MaduraiSelvam and Willywick. Though we can't expect Madurai to be like any other Metros, it has it's own cosmopolitan qualities. On the need for better infrastructure, it can be agreed. But, IT companies need to look into what they need primarily. They should be looking into the pool of qualified people, attrition rate, infrastructure etc., They shouldn't be highlighting the need for Pubs, Coffee shops etc., as a prerequisite. When IT companies come up in any city, these things will also come up. So, they need not worry about those. When the government is willing to provide infrastructure and is inviting companies to start in Tier II cities, let the IT companies stop cribbing about what's not there and start their shops when they have the required things done.

To be used for imparting pre-sea training to students

COMMISSIONED: Ajoy Chatterjee, Chief Surveyor-cum-Additional Director General (Technical), Directorate General of Shipping, Mumbai, fifth from left, launching the training ship on Monday. — Photo: S. James


MADURAI: A `ship-on-campus' laboratory and workshop was launched at the R.L. Institute of Nautical Sciences here on Monday.

`Meenakshi,' a life-size training ship, was launched for imparting pre-sea training to students of marine engineering on operational and maintenance aspects. With a dimension of 81 metres in length, it is a replica of a cargo vessel with three decks.

The training ship Meenakshi, which is constructed at a cost of Rs. 5 crore in a time of 30 months, is equipped with 4,000 horse power Deutz engine and two Cummins generators, said R. Lakshmipathy, president of the institute.

With the presence of a training ship, cadets would get hands-on training for 1,152 hours during the course of six months, he explained.

S.C. Misra, a professor from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, was assigned by the Directorate General of Shipping to monitor, advise and certify the project.

The `Training Ship Meenakshi' was launched by Ajoy Chatterjee, Chief Surveyor-cum-Additional Director General (Technical), Directorate General of Shipping.


http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/29/stories/2006082912840100.htm

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/4808/paramount1tz5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/4227/paramount2nj0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://www.dinamalar.com/2006aug29/general_tn2.asp

Passport office being planned at Madurai and Coimbatore, as per this report.

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DNT20060828112153&Title=TamilNadu+Page&lTitle=R%AAZLm&Topic=0

Passport office being planned at Madurai and Coimbatore, as per this report.

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DNT20060828112153&Title=TamilNadu+Page&lTitle=R%AAZLm&Topic=0
I know that there was a passport office already at Madurai, where we can submit the applications for Trichy office. Is this completely a new regional office?

I know that there was a passport office already at Madurai, where we can submit the applications for Trichy office. Is this completely a new regional office?

I think you are talking about the collection centre which I believe exists in all district headquarters. This one will be a new regional office. So, if someone gets a Passport from this new(still in the planning stages and not sure if it will indeed be in Madurai) office, that person's Passport Issued Place will be "Madurai". If the new office comes up, it will be easier for the southern districts people to go to Madurai and finish their work incase of enquiry, speeding up etc.,

Emigration clearance not needed for Class 10

Malappuram: Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahmad yesterday announced that only those who have not cleared their Class 10 will be required to get emigration clearance.

"It has also been decided that henceforth passports will not have the page which asks for emigration clearance. Instead, the law would become applicable that all those who don't have a Class 10 qualification will have to get the emigration clearance," Ahmad said at a function to inaugurate the fourth passport office in Kerala.

According to current rules, all applicants who did not have the Class 12 qualification had to take an emigration clearance before being allowed to go abroad.

Kerala already has passport offices at Kozhikode, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. There are 1.8 million non-resident Keralites abroad, majority of them in Gulf countries. The demand for a passport office at Malappuram has been a long-standing one.

"With the new office, the waiting period for getting a new passport would come down drastically," said Ahmad. Later, addressing reporters, the minister said that in the first phase, e-passports would be given to diplomats and officials from 2007. It would be given to others too.

"We have also decided that there would be a regional passport office at all state headquarters. New passport offices would be opened at Shimla, Dehradun, Raipur and Amritsar this year. We have also planned passport offices at Coimbatore and Madurai," he said.


http://www.gulfnews.com/world/India/10063458.html

Bs Reporter / Chennai August 29, 2006

Information technology enabled services (ITeS) sector has immense potential to offer job opportunities to the uncovered talent pool, said Sreeram Iyer, chief executive officer, Scope International Pvt Ltd, the business process outsourcing arm of Standard Chartered Bank.

Speaking at a seminar on 'ITeS competitiveness: looking beyond' organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Ficci), he said ITeS industry in the country could remain competitive by focusing on the uncovered talent pool.

This business was most suited to leverage the potential of people who are mentally capable, but physically challenged, he added.

“As the industry would have to discover new pool of people to move forward, non-graduates and educated housewives could also be tapped for employments in the ITeS sector. Thousands of educated housewives, who had worked for sometime but couldn't continue in the job, can be incentivised to come back to the industry by offering flexible job opportunities,” Iyer added.

Citing Scope's experience in hiring people from the tier II cities, he said it was satisfying as these people possessed the right attitude, high productivity and the willingness to learn.

Referring to organisational competitiveness, he pointed out that the focus on the four pillars -- cost, service quality, people management, and risk management or information security -- would help organisations remain competitive.

If the Indian companies try to be competitive in these four areas, only few countries could think of beating India. Though the country has been focusing on training the junior level management, it is time it should start focusing on building leadership talent also, he said.

Union minister for communications and information technology Dayanidhi Maran urged the information technology enabled services (ITeS) industry to spread its operations to tier II cities in Tamil Nadu like Coimbatore, Tiruchi and Tirunelveli, as they produced huge talent pool.

Coimbatore has emerged as the second major industrial destination in the state followed by Tiruchi, he said.

In his inaugural address, he said the Centre would work with the state government to set up STPI (Software Technology Parks of India) centres in Madurai, Tiruchi, Salem and Tirunelveli to attract companies to operate from these locations.
He also pointed out that it was very important to focus on Chennai before moving on to other cities. “Unless we showcase Chennai as the best destination, we will not be able to sell Tamil Nadu,” he said.

http://www.business-standard.com/common/storypage.php?autono=102965&leftnm=8&subLeft=0&chkFlg=

Introduction of cable cars in Udhagamandalam and Kodaikanal hill resorts by December this year, and development of Madurai, Thanjavur, Kanyakumari and Vellore as major tourist destinations with assistance from the Union Tourism Ministry are some of the initiatives announced by State Tourism Minister, N. Suresh Rajan, here on Monday.

The Minister said during 2006-2007, upgradation of major hotels at Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal, Kanyakumari, Rameswaram, Madurai, Yercaud and Mamallapuram would be taken up.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/29/stories/2006082919590800.htm

Thats nice, then for Madurai NRIs Bangalore will become one more Chennai, meaning that they can fly via both places.
So how many in total, daily in and out bound flights are there from Madurai?

Do the NRIs prefer Air Deccan before/after their international travel? I mean, there is no alliance for Air Deccan with any of the international flights, right? Jet Airways and Indian will have alliance with many of the international airlines.

But, people can always book separate tickets and travel. I don't know if the weight restrictions are severe in Air Deccan compared to others.

Bangalore-Madurai flight is definitely good. It would have been nice if the Bangalore-Madurai flight is introduced in the evening and not late in the afternoon. Probably there is no slot available. Madurai-Bangalore flight seems to be good for international connections. Hope it becomes a success to pave the way for more flights to Bangalore.

Do the NRIs prefer Air Deccan before/after their international travel? I mean, there is no alliance for Air Deccan with any of the international flights, right? Jet Airways and Indian will have alliance with many of the international airlines.

But, people can always book separate tickets and travel. I don't know if the weight restrictions are severe in Air Deccan compared to others.
Bangalore-Madurai flight is definitely good. It would have been nice if the Bangalore-Madurai flight is introduced in the evening and not late in the afternoon. Probably there is no slot available. Madurai-Bangalore flight seems to be good for international connections. Hope it becomes a success to pave the way for more flights to Bangalore.
I think they prefer Air Deccan too, including me, because we can buy online tickets for Air Deccan as well. Infact its cheaper than Jet Airways.
I prefer Chennai connections though, but having an option will pull down the ticket fare by the travels agents.

Aitken Spence Hotels Holdings expanding into India

Aitken Spence Hotels Holdings is expanding into India, with several properties to be taken over for management by the hotel chain in New Delhi and Madurai. Spence has finalised an agreement to manage and refurbish an 80 room garden resort in Madurai, due to be operational by mid next year.

http://www.lankabusinessonline.com/fullstory.php?newsID=1621030966&no_view=1&SEARCH_TERM=12

An 80 room Garden resort in Madurai. So, I guess there is going to be a take over of the TAJ THE GARDEN RETREAT as I don't see any other resort in Madurai.

I think they prefer Air Deccan too, including me, because we can buy online tickets for Air Deccan as well. Infact its cheaper than Jet Airways.
I prefer Chennai connections though, but having an option will pull down the ticket fare by the travels agents.

Glad to hear that its popular with NRIs too. So, Colombo-Madurai flight should be useful too, whenever it is introduced. Hopefully it happens in October.
---------------------------
Paramount is also introducing first class with the induction of its third aircraft. “The airline will enhance flights to its basic routes in South India including Coimbatore, Madurai, Kochi, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Thiruvananthapuram. It will connect all key cities in the region,” a source said.

http://www.business-standard.com/compindustry/storypage.php?leftnm=1&subLeft=1&chklogin=N&autono=103036&tab=r

Extending presence in BOT projects

“Of the total order book of Rs 28 billion bagged in road projects by MPL, BOT projects constitute Rs 18 billion. MPL has built strong expertise in road projects, which has enabled it to bag four BOT projects, which include the Bharatpur-Mahua (58 km), Karur-Dinigul (68 km), Tanjavur-Tirchy (55km) and Madurai-Tuticorn (129 km). These are all toll-based projects wherein 2 projects namely the Bharatpur-Mahua (Rajasthan) and Karur-Dinigul (Tamil Nadu) have achieved financial closure.”

http://www.moneycontrol.com/india/news/recommendations/emkayresearchmadhuconprojects/buymadhuconprojectstargetrs368emkay/market/stocks/article/237084

An 80 room Garden resort in Madurai. So, I guess there is going to be a take over of the TAJ THE GARDEN RETREAT as I don't see any other resort in Madurai.

I dont think so, this should either new one or some other resort. I heard TAJ GARDEN RETREAT have some other plans from the mangement.

MADURAI: The Government Rajaji Hospital (GRH) here, which caters to patients of southern districts, has got official clearance for the proposed 300-bed extension project, to be taken up on an outlay of Rs.60 crore.

While the Madurai Corporation has come forward to offer a two-acre land at Anna Bus Stand, the Government recently sanctioned Rs.15 crore under the first phase this fiscal. The special wing will focus on trauma/emergency cases with new features like `pay wards' and option for patients to choose their doctors.

A design of the proposed building has been sent to the Chief Architect of Public Works Department for clearance after which the construction work will be taken up.

S.M. Sivakumar, Dean (in-charge), said on Tuesday that the project was likely to be completed in two years and it would be easy to attend emergency cases at this centre. Speciality doctors would be available round the clock.

According to R. Mathivanan, Resident Medical Officer, though the Corporation was ready to give the land, the hospital would take possession after the design was cleared by the PWD authorities.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/30/stories/2006083015420100.htm

I dont think so, this should either new one or some other resort. I heard TAJ GARDEN RETREAT have some other plans from the mangement.

The report wasn't mentioning about any new one. I can't think of any other garden resort in Madurai. If it's going to be a new one, I will be happy. TAJ is having around 60 rooms and this report mentions about a garden resort with 80 odd rooms. So, it could very well be some other hotel or new one. Let's see if any other news comes up on this.

Collector T. Udhayachandran said a conducive atmosphere was prevailing in Madurai, which had been lending human resources to IT companies elsewhere, and appealed to Infosys to open its operations here. He offered to cooperate in any efforts to bring IT companies to Madurai. The chairman of CII's Madurai zone, Ligi George, said Madurai was not new to multinational companies as it had the tradition of having Madura Coats and Fenner for decades. The city also had a history of trading with Rome.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/30/stories/2006083024280300.htm

MADURAI: Indian has resumed its direct flight operations from Madurai to Mumbai (IC 672), thus becoming the only domestic carrier to operate on the sector.

The national carrier has pressed into service 145-seater Airbus 320 comprising 20 executive class and 125 economy class seats. The flight is scheduled to leave Madurai at 1.20 pm and reach Mumbai at 4.25 pm, via Chennai.

It reaches Chennai at 2.15 pm and departs at 2.55 pm after 40 minutes of ‘ground’ time. Restoration of operations on the Madurai-Mumbai sector with effect from August 12 comes in the wake of the completion of runway strengthening works at the Madurai airport.

Indian had suspended operations to Mumbai for over a year due to the works carried out at the airport. However, it was operating a Chennai-bound flight.

In May this year, Indian reintroduced the Mumbai-Chennai-Madurai (IC 671) flight. In the return direction, the flight terminated at Chennai.

‘‘With the extension of the return flight to Mumbai now, the average passengers flying to Mumbai from Madurai is 20 and the number is likely to increase during summer vacation,’’ says Area Marketing Manager A Selvaraj.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060831000012&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

Move to shift city bus bay draws traders' ire

S. Sundar

An effort to upgrade Mattuthavani bus stand, says Corporation

MADURAI: The Corporation has proposed to shift the city bus bay from the front side in the Mattuthavani integrated bus stand to the main platforms where suburban and outstation buses are parked.

While the local body says that the move is to upgrade the bus stand for getting ISO quality certification, the traders' association has opposed the move, stating that the new move will cause inconvenience to passengers.

The president of Mattuthavani Integrated Bus Stand Traders' Association, Bala. Thamburaj, said the local body that had recently laid a new road on the city bus bay was planning to render it useless by creating a park there.

"The present system is smooth. Mixing city buses with long distance and outstation buses would create a confusion among passengers and also lead to congestion," Mr. Thamburaj said.

Taxi, auto stand to be shifted


The Superintending Engineer, K. Sakthivel, clarified that the entire portion of the present city bus bay would not be used for creating a park. "It will have some plants, lawn and fountains along with some shops for flower and fruit vendors. The same space will be used for taxi and auto stand," he said.

At any given point of time, at least 40 out of the 96 bus bays for outstation buses are vacant. The vacant bays can accommodate the city buses, which he said, will not be more than 20 at a time.

While a section of city bus drivers claimed that they could not negotiate their old vehicles that did not have power steering inside the bus bays, Mr. Sakthivel said the bays conformed to prevailing standards. "The transport authorities have cleared the design," he added.

The association has also raised suspicion over the "clandestine move" of the Corporation. "The issue was not discussed at the traffic advisory committee meeting held on July 28 in which ways to decongest traffic in the city and to integrate all buses with Mattuthavani bus stand were discussed," he said.

Even when the buses, now being operated from Palanganatham and Arapalayam bus stands, had to be shifted to Mattuthavani, the bus stand could be expanded to the 10-acre land adjacent to it.

The amenities in the bus stand would get upgraded for getting ISO certification, he added.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/31/stories/2006083124010300.htm

Nice to know that they are working to get ISO certification. When the roads planned in JNNURM connecting the bus stand, at the back side to the ring road is completed there could be a huge reduction in the traffic on the NH. I hope they take up the expansion work on the 10 acre land available ASAP, so that there is enough space once the Arapalayam bus stand is shifted.

MADURAI: ...........It reaches Chennai at 2.15 pm and departs at 2.55 pm after 40 minutes of ‘ground’ time. Restoration of operations on the Madurai-Mumbai sector with effect from August 12 comes in the wake of the completion of runway strengthening works at the Madurai airport.

.................

‘‘With the extension of the return flight to Mumbai now, the average passengers flying to Mumbai from Madurai is 20 and the number is likely to increase during summer vacation,’’ says Area Marketing Manager A Selvaraj.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060831000012&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

It's really good to get a press report saying that the runway strengthening works are completed. But, it's not inspiring to note that the average passengers between Mumbai and Madurai is 20. Could this be a typo? It will be good for the transhipment of Jasmine to Mumbai from Madurai.

Kshitij Investment Advisory Co Ltd is planning to set up 51 malls across the country, spanning 14.5 million sq ft.

Branded Kshitij Retail Destinations, these malls would come up not only in the four metros and Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune, but also in tier-II towns such as Coimbatore, Madurai, Vijaywada, Rajahmundry, Kozhikode Kochi and Hubli.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/01/stories/2006090101630500.htm

IBM India commenced its operations at Kochi on Thursday, thereby expanding its reach to 41 cities across the country.

The Kochi unit would enable the company to cater to the unique requirements of the various small and medium business (SMB) clients spread across non-metros in India, Mr Lingraju Sawkar, Vice-President, SMB, IBM India, said at a press meet.

Kochi is the first branch expanded by IBM in South India and there are plans to open more such branches at Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Goa shortly, he added.

IBM with its portfolio of products in hardware and software services and open standards compatibility and ISV (independent software vendor) and partner solutions has the capability to address the growing business issues between SMBs, Mr Sawkar said.

Mid market companies have distinct needs that are often ignored by most service providers. IBM's technologies and solutions for Indian small and mid market business provide a competitive edge in this era of globalisation. With over 3,000 SMB customers in India, the company's Kochi operations will target various clients in government, banking, healthcare, retail, hospitality, travel and transportation. The company has invested in the development of products and services specifically priced and designed for the SMB marketplace under the brand name IBM Express Portfolio, comprising hardware, software, services, solutions and financing. These offerings are delivered through sales and marketing team of 6,000 people and a network of 90,000 business partners organised in 243 local sales territories around the world.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/01/stories/2006090101860400.htm

IBM India commenced its operations at Kochi on Thursday, thereby expanding its reach to 41 cities across the country.

.......

Kochi is the first branch expanded by IBM in South India and there are plans to open more such branches at Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Goa shortly, he added.

..............
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/01/stories/2006090101860400.htm

Great news. Hope to see many more MNCs set their foot in Madurai soon.

To woo IT firms to Tier - II cities to avoid a lop-sided development in the IT industry in the State, the Tamil Nadu Government has decided to offer an attractive 'Combo' scheme'. Under the scheme those who come forward to promote one million square feat in IT parks in Tier II cities would be given 10 acres of land in the high premium Special Economic Zone (SEZ) of Sholingar near Chennai.

Disclosing this here to reporters on Thursday ELCOT Managing Director C. Uma Shankar said the Government was keen to develop IT parks in Tier II cities of Salem, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Madurai, Trichy and Hosur apart from Chennai. "An IT major has already evinced keen interest in this `Combo' offer by coming forward to develop the site at the IT park in a Tier II city," he said. This way a uniform development could be ensured in both Tier II cities and in Chennai in the state's IT industry, he said.

The State also after establishing the parks would be initiating steps to convert them into SEZs in coordination with the Union Government. Saying that the government had been identifying only `porombok' lands for setting up these parks, there would not be any hitch in land acquisition process. "In fact the District Collectors of Tier II cities have already identified lands and are on the verge of transferring them to the operating agency, ELCOT for the development," he said.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/01/stories/2006090115430500.htm

Madurai in IBM expansion plan

This is the second foreign company next to Honeywell in Madurai.

Kochi, Aug 31: Global it major IBM has expanded its operations in Kerala by opening a full-fledged branch in Kochi, the first in South India, and was planning similar expansions at Coimbatore, Vishakapatnam and Madurai.


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/01/stories/2006090101860400.htm

To woo IT firms to Tier - II cities to avoid a lop-sided development in the IT industry in the State, the Tamil Nadu Government has decided to offer an attractive 'Combo' scheme'. Under the scheme those who come forward to promote one million square feat in IT parks in Tier II cities would be given 10 acres of land in the high premium Special Economic Zone (SEZ) of Sholingar near Chennai.

..........
http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/01/stories/2006090115430500.htm

This looks like a good incentive. Hope the MNCs take note of it and start their shops in Tier II cities thereby decongesting Chennai and developing other Tier II cities like Madurai.

MADURAI: Indian has restored its service in the Madurai-Chennai-Mumbai sector. The service remained suspended since May 1, 2005.

According to a press release issued by M. Selvaraj, Area Marketing Manager, the Indian service, IC 671, leaves Mumbai at 9.20 a.m. and reaches Madurai at 12.40 p.m., through Chennai. IC 672 leaves Madurai at 1.20 p.m. and reaches Mumbai at 4.25 p.m., after touching Chennai.

He claimed that approximately 20 passengers were now travelling to Mumbai, since the resumption of service in mid-August, at fares starting from Rs 5,730, against the normal fare of Rs. 11,805. The service is more beneficial to jasmine growers as they are able to send their flowers direct to Mumbai.

Indian has also introduced spot fares in the Madurai-Chennai-Mumbai sector. They are Rs. 2,855 for Madurai-Chennai and Rs. 5,730 for Madurai-Mumbai. The press release said that passengers could buy tickets at spot fares at the airport till one hour prior to departure of the flight.

The airport counter was now being opened at 8 a.m., five hours before departure, for the convenience of passengers.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/02/stories/2006090226450300.htm

A report from Dailythanthi about the reasons behind the need for a Passport office in Madurai. Pl ignore the other news.

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/3171/mduppdj6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Hai Madurai, Can you can trim out the picture with only passport office news? The important thing will be the box summarising the applicants. The important points of the article can be summarised in English for the readers, remeber its an international forum.

‘Madurai has huge potential for heritage tourism’

MADURAI: There is a huge potential for heritage tourism in Madurai if it is tapped and promoted in a proper manner, said V Irai Anbu, secretary, Department of Information and Tourism, here, on Saturday.
Maintenance plans have been chalked out at an estimated Rs 5 crore allotted by the Central Government to preserve and protect heritage structures, including Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple and Thirumalai Naicker Palace.District Collector T Udayachandran elaborated on the plans to facelift the sites.
The Information and Tourism Secretary, accompanied by the District Collector, inspected Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple complex, including Pudumandanpam, Thousand Pillar Hall, Temple marriage hall, museum and Meenakshi Park, as a precursor to the maintenance works.
“The 160 shops presently existing in Pudumandapam will be evicted and they will be allotted space in a new commercial complex to be constructed at Kunnathur Temple site for Rs 2.4 crore,” said District Collector T Udayachandran.
Estimates have been prepared and sent to the Central government regarding maintenance activities at the Thousand Pillar hall and the temple marriage hall for Rs 1.75 crore and Rs 35 lakh respectively, added Irai Anbu.
The temple tower maintenance will be undertaken at an expense of Rs 10 lakh, while a proposal to provide glass casing for the temple car at a cost of Rs 12 lakh has also been forwarded to the government.
“Legends should be placed highlighting the myths behind the stone carvings and sculptures installed at various places inside the temple for the benefit of tourists,” Irai Anbu said. Bronze statues, oil paintings and other artefacts will be properly maintained and preserved.
District Administration is mulling over bringing in Fine Arts college students to lend a helping hand in some of these proposed activities. Information kiosks and touchscreen monitors will be placed at all towers for the convenience of tourists and devotees. Meenakshi Park will be revived into an open green park by removing the enclosures and also by organising cultural and folk shows at the podium every weekend for public and tourists alike.
“It will all be done in a very informal set up and the shows will be extended to seven days a week from next year ownwards,” Irai Anbu said.There are also detailed plans for the four Chithirai Streets and adjoining areas for laying a new sidewalk for pedestrians at Rs 86.6 lakh, laying cables, constructing enclosures and concrete works for Rs 32 lakh, Rs 50 lakh and Rs 97.48 lakh respectively.
The first phase of renovation works has been completed at Thirumalai Naicker Mahal and the second phase will be executed at an estimate of Rs 3 crore said District Collector T Udayachandran. Extensive patch-up works will be done on the ceiling and pillars and also a new light and sound system will be installed in the palace.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060903010643&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+%2D+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0&

The union government will sanction 80 percent subsidy for projects aimed at developing the basic infrastructure in Madurai, as it one of the 63 cities selected by the Centre for urban development, said Ajay Maken, Minister of state for Urban Development, here, on Sunday.

Maken was addressing a Youth Congress Conference in the city. Also Addressing the function, Union Minister of State for statistics and programme implementation, G K Vasan, stated that Youth Congress will strive to reintroduce the principles and policies followed by Kamaraj in his regime.

All India Youth Congress President Ashok Tanwar assured that Youth Congress will play a major role in the coming local body elections.

The conference also highlighted on the party’s positive attitude towards the overall development of the country minus the exclusion of economically challenged sections.

Youth Congress has decided to take up an economic census and submit the list of people below poverty line to the concerned District Administrations. If the administrations are reluctant to accept their list then it will be accepted by the Youth Congress whip, Peter Alphonse.

The educational reforms and pro-poor schemes followed during Kamaraj’s term as the State Chief Minister is what the state needs now and Youth Congress will work hard to re-implement these policies said G k Vaasan.

The Youth Congress strongly condemned the violence belted out against tamilians in Sri Lanka by the Lankan government. A resolution was unanimously passed stating that ceasefire should be proclaimed and the long-standing issue should be sorted out through rounds of peace parleys.

“It should also be noted that it has a played a major role in paving way for the Congress Party’s performance along with other allies and congress factions in the recent state elections” said Ashok Tanwar, ALL India Youth Congress President.

The conference was attended by a number of Congress and Youth Congress leaders including Mayura Jayakumar, P Sudarshan, V Murugan and others.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060904015419&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+%2D+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0&

A. Srivathsan

Project is estimated to cost Rs.59.31 crore

CHENNAI: Based on the City Development Plan submitted under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), the Madurai Corporation has prepared a project to improve water supply in the city.

The project is estimated to cost Rs.59.31 crore. The Centre has agreed to give Rs.29.65 crore as grant. The first instalment of 7.41 crore has already been released.

The Madurai Corporation submitted the City Development Plan (CDP) as part of its urban improvement proposal in March 2006. Wilbur Smith Associates, a private consultant, prepared the plan, which proposes to improve drainage, water supply, slums and solid waste management.

The works are estimated to cost Rs.2,361 crore. The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), New Delhi, which appraised the CDP, found it conforming with JNNURM norms. The Corporation has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Government of India for sanction of grants.

Under the JNNURM norms, Madurai, a category B city, will receive 50 per cent of the funds from the Centre. The State Government will provide 20 per cent. The local body has to raise the balance through market or other means. The Ministry of Urban Development has taken the initiative to credit rate city development projects so that the local bodies can raise funds. On an earlier occasion, the Madurai Corporation raised Rs. 29 crore through bonds in private placement.

The JNNURM requires that multi-stakeholder meeting be held at all stages and allocates funds for this. However, a few groups have raised doubts about the kind of consultations undertaken in the preparation of the CDP. Earlier, the Madurai Corporation had submitted its updated 2001 City Corporate Plan as its new CDP. The NIUA is now satisfied with the appraised CDP and thinks it fulfils the requirements.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/07/stories/2006090718020700.htm

Madurai, Sept 7: The Madurai Corporation Council today decided to allot 28.93 acres of land at Kochadai, a city suburb, for setting up a Tidel Park.


A meeting of the Council held here resolved that the Tidel Park would be a joint venture project of the city Corporation and the software companies which would be setting up their units in the park.


Earlier, the Corporation was willing to offer five acres of land near the Mattuthavani bus stand and had passed a resolution to that effect on July 19. But the companies felt that the area was not sufficient and hence an alternative site was allocated through a new resolution today. (Agencies)

http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID={08336E17-0D83-4B5D-81E2-85F1112521F7}&CATEGORYNAME=TECH

I thought they identified 50+ acres in Mattuthavani area unlike mentioned in this report which says 5 acres. It doesn't look promising to change locations which could end up in controversies and delay the project. Hope the IT Park in MKU area stays where it was proposed and implemented soon along with the Tidel Park.

MADURAI: The Corporation has expressed its interest in a joint venture with established software companies to set up a tidel park in the city.

A special council meeting held here on Thursday resolved to allot 29.93 acres of land at Kochadai for the park.

The local body has zeroed in on this land housing a defunct drinking water treatment plant on Melakkal Road.

This land was an ideal site because of its proximity to the 250-acre of land, which the Madurai Kamaraj University had proposed to offer for setting up a huge IT Park, the Mayor C. Ramachandran said.

The Corporation would seek "expression of interest" from software companies, its Superintending Engineer, K. Sakthivel, said.

The local body would give the land as its share and help in building up the infrastructure on the site for an agreed mode of revenue sharing.

Apart from looking it as an income-generating activity, the local body hopes to provide employment opportunity to the educated youth from southern districts.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/08/stories/2006090824160300.htm

Earlier, Karunanidhi handed over land documents to TCS and Wipro for development centres at Tier-II cities – Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Salem and Tirunelveli.


http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID=%7BB4A26030%2D24B8%2D491F%2D9B75%2D52BC85B94AC8%7D&CATEGORYNAME=TAMIL+NADU

So, does this mean that TCS and Wipro will have their development centres in all these places???

Saturday September 9 2006 10:48 IST
MADURAI: The sports arena in Madurai and surrounding region is all set to get a facelift with the modernisation and development measures carried out at Race Course Stadium here.

Some of the works have already been completed, while others are on the verge of completion.

The highlight among the new facilities coming up in the stadium is a synthetic track, which would be a major fillip to athletics and other track and field events.

The works on the 400-metre track are in the final stage and the pending work of the installation of the aluminium beading in the inner side of the track is expected to be over in another one month.

The synthetic track, laid at a cost of Rs 3.38 crore, brings international facilities to the doorstep of athletes in the region comprising Madurai and its neighbouring districts, said District Sports Officer, Sports Development Authority of Tamilnadu (SDAT), R Gopinathan.

This apparently makes Madurai an eligible contender for top international track and field competitions, as the certification from International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) is at a hand’s reach and its inspection team is expected any time after the completion of works.

A Malaysia-based company, with its regional headquarters at New Delhi, was handed over the contract work on the track almost a year ago.

In the state, a full-fledged synthetic track is existing only in Chennai Nehru Stadium and works are progressing on a similar track in Coimbatore Nehru Stadium as well.

With the aim of protecting the track from trespassers and stray animals, a 12 feet high ‘chain line’ fence encircling the track would be raised.

The State Government has sanctioned Rs 10 lakh for this and tender has been invited for the works that would probably begin in two weeks. Another Rs 30 lakh is given for purchasing various equipments, including high jump mat, pole vault mat, poles, hurdles and cross bars.

Another work on the anvil is the laying of natural grass in the football ground at an estimate of Rs 6 lakh.

Sprinklers have already been fitted around the ground.

Basic works on two basketball courts and two tennis courts are over and synthetic layer would be put in the coming weeks.

The floodlights in the stadium would also bear a fresh look, with the replacement of non-functioning bulbs and the authorities concerned are also mulling over a silver coating for the supporting structure of the floodlight.

Works to the tune of Rs 30 lakh have been carried out for the construction of sports hostel, with a capacity of 150 members, in the first phase and the Government has earmarked another Rs 30 lakh for the completion of the same and the works would commence in six months.

The synthetic track, laid at a cost of Rs 3.38 crore, brings international facilities to the doorstep of athletes in the region.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060909002652&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+%2D+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0&

Coimbatore, Sept 9: Six regional passport offices, including two in Tamil Nadu will be started by 2007, Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed said today.


With the country having 31 regional passport offices, the government is thinking of opening six more offices, including two in Tamil Nadu, one in Coimbatore and the other in Madurai, Ahamed told reporters to a specific question.


Regional passport offices would be opened in Amritsar, Dehradun, Shimla and Raipur during the period, he said. (Agencies)

http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID=%7B29B3E4AC-0AE6-4010-A6A7-8941B239C8B0%7D&CATEGORYNAME=Chennai

T.S. Shankar

CHENNAI: Chennai-based Paramount Airways, currently operating twice daily to Hyderabad and Madurai from Chennai, will be flying thrice daily from September 15, Managing Director M. Thiagarajan said here on Friday.

The Chennai-Hyderabad-Chennai-Hyderabad flight will leave here at 6.25 a.m., reach Hyderabad at 7.25 a.m., leave Hyderabad at 8.00 a.m. and arrive in Chennai at 9.00 a.m.

While the present fleet strength of three Embraer jets would go up with the arrival of the fourth aircraft from Brazil by this month end, Mr. Thiagarajan said the airline would be formally launching the dual configuration seats in the Embraer jets on October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanthi celebrations. The airline will be offering 11 first and 64 business class seats.

The airline was currently operating thrice daily to Bangalore from Chennai, twice daily to Coimbatore, Madurai, and Hyderabad and once daily to Kochi. He said the airline's proposed introduction of the third flight between Chennai and Madurai would provide convenient onward international connections out of Chennai Anna International Terminal. The Madurai-bound service from Chennai would depart at 7.00 p.m., reach Madurai at 7.55 p.m., leave Madurai at 8.25 p.m. and arrive at 9.20 p.m. in Chennai.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/10/stories/2006091014050700.htm

CHENNAI: Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dayanidhi Maran on Saturday said the Centre was exploring the possibility of shifting the site of the proposed Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Aeronautical Science and Training and Pilots Academy from Sriperumbudur to Vellore, as "operational and technical problems in the air corridor" over Sriperumbudur had been brought to its notice.
http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/10/stories/2006091017060800.htm


Madurai should lobby for having it setup here. Madurai had lost the Aviation university due to the change of government, so we have to clinch this opportunity. Madurai has far better infrastructure and air corridor, interms of operational and technical aspects compared to Vellore.

Earlier, Karunanidhi handed over land documents to TCS and Wipro for development centres at Tier-II cities – Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Salem and Tirunelveli.


http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID=%7BB4A26030%2D24B8%2D491F%2D9B75%2D52BC85B94AC8%7D&CATEGORYNAME=TAMIL+NADU

So, does this mean that TCS and Wipro will have their development centres in all these places???

I think that it has been misquoted.

The land has been given only in Coimbatore to TCS and WIPRO. The requests and approvals were all old ones but atleast it made some news during the conference.

Madurai should lobby for having it setup here. Madurai had lost the Aviation university due to the change of government, so we have to clinch this opportunity. Madurai has far better infrastructure and air corridor, interms of operational and technical aspects compared to Vellore.

Dr. Ramalingam, who gave an account of the quantum jump in aircraft movement and passenger traffic in the country, said there were 28 State-owned flying clubs/schools and 11 private flying schools.

Over 17 private organisations had applied for space in Tuticorin, Pondicherry, Madurai, Tiruchi, Salem and Vellore for establishing flying schools.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/10/stories/2006091017060800.htm

This move is only for the flying school I guess. The aviation university is still up in the air I think. There is no mention about the Aviation University from the current government and I doubt if it will ever come up again in this rule, due to politics. Also, the Central Cabinet minister in charge of this could be interested in developing such a facility in Nagpur.

The IT-enabled services (ITES) action is getting hotter, off the IT highway. Places of historical importance such as Madurai and Tiruchy are witnessing accelerated activity in the ITES space.

Industry players see these townships as ideal destinations for expansion. They cite the availability of a rich talent pool across these cities.

Also, sky-rocketing real estate rates in popular cities such as Mumbai and Bangalore, the pitiable roads within city limits with rising traffic (brought by the IT boom) and poor maintenance, and the energy demand outstripping supply in some pockets, are other reasons they cite for expanding their network in newer belts.

Honeywell Technology Solutions Lab has established its base at Madurai. "We have grown from 16 in 2002 to around 250 professionals on date. The facility will serve as a strategic centre for product sustenance and grooming talent. We plan to absorb another 300 engineers," says the Business Head of Honeywell in Madurai, Raghurami Reddy.

At inception in 2002, Honeywell occupied an area of 600 sq.ft, before moving over to the Thiagarajar Advanced Research Centre the following year to occupy an area of 15,000 sq.ft.

In 2005, it expanded its operations to Thirunagar with additional working area of 14,000 sq.ft.

`We have plans to specialise in certain domains, functional areas and elevate the Madurai arm into a Centre of Excellence in these domains and functional areas,' says Raghurami Reddy. Dotcom Infoway opened offices at Madurai and Chennai almost simultaneously with 25 professionals at each location, six years ago.

The headcount at its Madurai arm has swelled to 150 now, whereas the Chennai office continues to service clients with 50 professionals. Its CEO, C.R. Venkatesh, saysemployee loyalty is good in smaller towns.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/ew/2006/09/11/stories/2006091100020100.htm

Those expansion figures of both Honeywell and Dotcom Infoway are really splendid. Honeywell had grown from 16 professionals working on 600 sq.ft in 2002 to 250 professionals working on 29,000 sq.ft. It has also plans to absorb 300 more professionals. Dotcom Infoway had grown from 25 to 150 professionals beating its head count in Chennai where it had also started operations the same year.

Models of developing tier-II cities in Tamil Nadu to cater to the growing IT market were discussed at Connect 2006. The cities considered were Tiruchi, Coimbatore, Salem, Madurai, Tirunelveli and Hosur.

Mr Aditya Sapru, Partner, Frost and Sullivan, said Tiruchi and Coimbatore could be developed as `Centres of Excellence', while Salem, Madurai and Tirunelveli could be developed as clusters.

"The State Government must consider developing a corridor connecting Madurai, Coimbatore and Hosur," said Mr Sapru.

Consortium approach

Ms R.Rajalakshmi, Director, Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), said a consortium approach involving industry and academia would help develop tier-II cities.

She gave the example of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between STPI and universities in Namakkal. "The IT industry relies on young graduates and such tie-ups provide local manpower. STPI is planning two more such consortia by March 2007," she said.

Through this consortia model, a transmission tower is provided in the college/university campus that is accessed by IT companies. This leads to information sharing and training between the academia and the industry.

Infrastructure building

Mr Sekar Ponniah, Managing Director of Tirunelveli based-Global Software Solutions (TVL) Private Ltd, said Nasscom could help companies located in tier-II cities find partners from foreign countries.

Mr C. Umashankar, Managing Director, ELCOT, shared the progress in infrastructure building in tier-II cities. He said an MoU had been signed with Tidel Park authorities to build about 1 million sq.ft. of IT parks in each of the five tier-II cities (except Hosur).

About 27 acres in Coimbatore would be annexed with the existing IT park there and another 400 acres of land had been identified in another part of the city.

About 220 acres had been identified within the Salem city limits on the expressway. "We have got offers from companies for developing this space," he said.

About 280 acres had been identified opposite to Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, and another 27 acres was being considered.

About 1,400 acres had been identified near Tiruchi and another 50 acres near the Tiruchi airport.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/11/stories/2006091101240200.htm

Madurai Corpn selects land for IT Park

The Madurai Corporation has identified 29.93 acres of land for establishing a tidel park in the city. Expressing its intent for a joint venture with established software companies for the purpose at a special Council meeting held here recently, the Corporation is willing to offer the land as its share and help in building the infrastructure based on an agreed mode of revenue sharing, according to Corporation Superintending Engineer, Mr K. Sakthivel.

The site, housing a defunct drinking water treatment plant, near Kochadai in the outskirts of the city, is very close to the 250-acre land, which Madurai Kamaraj University has offered for setting up a IT Park.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/11/stories/2006091102041500.htm

Madurai Corpn selects land for IT Park


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/11/stories/2006091102041500.htm

This new place at Kochadai has Madura Coats, Fenner and TVS facilities already. The roads, Theni-Thekkady-Madurai highway needs to get an expansion for these project, esp. when both the IT Parks are gonna be placed in the same highway. I hope they will make another highway, like a byepass, to pass through the Virattipathu area, which was once a village with 'one lane' road through the area.

I still wonder why they choose this arleady populated area!

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/781/mdurmm4laningpm7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Survey is expected to be done for 6 months and work is expected to start in 8 months after approval.

Nearly all the National highways branching out of Madurai namely :

i) Madurai - Trichy
ii) Madurai - Dindigul
iii) Madurai - Kanyakumari
iv) Madurai - Tuticorin

are in various stages of four laning process. And now recently the Madurai-Rameshwaram stretch has also been taken up for survey. The one highway which has not been taken for expansion is the Madurai - Theni to Kerala road. At this stage with land allocated for both the TIDEL and IT parks lying on this highway, its necessary that this stretch is also 4 laned. The 4 lane highway could also increase the trade between keral and from this part of TN.

Paramount airways to introduce a day flight to Bangalore via Chennai from mid November in addition to the already existing 2 flights.

The Airways would be providing the maximum connectivity and convenience to the citizens of Madurai. It will be connecting Madurai and Hyderabad via Chennai with an all-inclusive starting thoroughfare at Rs 5,949.

Plans to introduce first class service in Chennai-Madurai sector from October

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/12/stories/2006091203011900.htm

It's really heartening to see Paramount's initiatives to give more connections to Madurai, obviously due to their roots from Madurai.
Will the Bangalore connection be a new one or just a connection flight to the existing Chennai flights?

Integration of Palanganatham, Arapalayam bus stands mooted

By forming a new one at vacant site at Ellis Nagar

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pointing out that he had raised the issue in the Assembly, A.K. Bose said that there was nothing wrong in having one more bus stand (at Ellis Nagar). He cited the example of Coimbatore having three bus stands.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MADURAI: The Tirupparankundram MLA, A.K. Bose, has mooted the idea of integrating the Palanganatham and Arapalayam bus stands by forming a new bus stand at a vacant site at Ellis Nagar.
The All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MLA, who participated in a special council meeting of the Corporation here on Saturday, said there had been a demand for integrating both the bus stands with the Mattuthavani integrated bus stand.
The long-pending issue could be solved by creating a new bus stand on the vacant land belonging to the Department of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments.
"The Corporation can take over 7 out of the 16 acres for the new bus stand. In turn, the local body can hand over the Arapalayam bus stand site to the HR and CE Department," Mr. Bose said.
Pointing out that he had raised the issue in the Assembly, he said that there was nothing wrong in having one more bus stand. He cited the example of Coimbatore having three bus stands.
"Chennai has only one bus stand since the city has sea on one side and buses do not come to the city from all the four directions," he said. Being critical of all outstation buses from Southern districts being asked to take the Ring Road to reach Mattuthavani bus stand without entering the city, he said, "a man who pays Rs. 20 to reach the bus stand from Virudhunagar needs to shell out more than Rs. 50 to reach Periyar bus stand."
Ideal place
The proposed site at Ellis Nagar was very close to the Periyar bus stand. Besides, people could walk from there to the railway station and Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, he added. The Mayor, C. Ramachandran, asked the officials to look into the MLA's proposal.
At the final meeting
The final meeting of the present council passed several resolutions, including one on 67 road works. The councillors from various wards complained of not including roads in their areas for re-laying after completing the underground drainage work. A few of them also objected to two different lists of wards that were supposed to have been reserved for women on a rotation basis. When the Commissioner, D.J. Dinakkaren, said that the list was yet to be finalised, the councillors insisted that the Commissioner should issue a clarification on the issue through the media.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/12/stories/2006091220940300.htm

Integration of Palanganatham, Arapalayam bus stands mooted
The Tirupparankundram MLA, A.K. Bose, has mooted the idea of integrating the Palanganatham and Arapalayam bus stands by forming a new bus stand at a vacant site at Ellis Nagar.


This would be a move in the wrong direction. The sole purpose of the Mattuthavani Integrated bus stand would be lost if such a move is taken. I dont think the Madurai corporation Mayor would consider this suggestion as he is in favour of the full fledged operation of the Bus stand.

The integrated bus stand would soon bring Arapalayam bus stand under its fold, as had happened with periyar, anna and palanganatham bus stands. I hope they complete the second phase of the ring road at the earliest as it would enable shifting arapalayam bus stand.

Yeah, I too feel that this will be a wrong move. Since this is coming from an opposition party to the Mayor's party, mostly its going to be shot down. Let's see.

Madurai, Sept 12. (PTI): Paramount Airways is planning to launch its third Madurai-Chennai service with a link to Hyderabad on Friday.

The airline aimed to operate 56 flights from next month from the current 24 flights it was operating now, the Airways Managing Director M Thiagarajan told newsmen here last night.

It planned to introduce flights between Tirupathi and Vishakapatnam in October and a Madurai-Bangalore flight from November. It had also planned to connect prime destinations in south India, he said.

"We will concentrate on south and then move to north. In a year or two we will be able to do that", he said.

The airways would offer 50 per cent discount on full fare to senior citizens and disabled passengers, Thiagarajan said adding that travel for disabled children below 12 years would be free.

A special group rate for college and school students would be given soon under a scheme, by which one ticket would be given free for every group of 10 students, he said.

Thiagarajan requested the Tamil Nadu and Kerala Governments to reduce the sales tax on aviation turbine fuel to make air travel cheaper.


http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/holnus/006200609121110.htm

Hi Guys, This is new member joining this thread.. Just a test msg...

Coimbatore is in the process of becoming a metropoliton city.. They are going to include nearby areas and creating a authority to develop the city.. Same process shud be started for Madurai too...

Nearly all the National highways branching out of Madurai namely :

i) Madurai - Trichy
ii) Madurai - Dindigul
iii) Madurai - Kanyakumari
iv) Madurai - Tuticorin

are in various stages of four laning process. And now recently the Madurai-Rameshwaram stretch has also been taken up for survey. The one highway which has not been taken for expansion is the Madurai - Theni to Kerala road. At this stage with land allocated for both the TIDEL and IT parks lying on this highway, its necessary that this stretch is also 4 laned. The 4 lane highway could also increase the trade between keral and from this part of TN.
This is great news.. So, it will be 5 four lane roads connecting Madurai with surrounding areas. This will make Madurai a real hub of Tamilnadu. Even Coimbatore, Trichy and other cities won't be having this kind of road infrastructure...

Explosive growth of Tuticorin city, development plans for Nanguneri, IT park @ tirunelveli will be added advantage for madurai as these centers will be mostly depend on Madurai city.

Coimbatore is in the process of becoming a metropoliton city.. They are going to include nearby areas and creating a authority to develop the city.. Same process shud be started for Madurai too...

Yeah, Madurai corporation limit should be extended all the way upto Tirumangalam on the Kanniyakumari side, Oththakadai on the Trichy side and should be expanded on the other sides also.

Madurai, Sept 12. (PTI): .......... and a Madurai-Bangalore flight from November. It had also planned to connect prime destinations in south India, he said.

.............


http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/holnus/006200609121110.htm

Let's hope that it's a direct flight as one of the earlier reports sounded like a connecting flight in the day time, which we already have. It will be great to have a direct flight which will be less expensive and less time consuming and could be useful for business travellers and for International connections. Air Deccan is also planning to start a Bangalore-Madurai flight from October 30th. Already the Railways have increased the AC Coaches in the Tuticorin-Mysore express.

Let's hope that it's a direct flight as one of the earlier reports sounded like a connecting flight in the day time, which we already have. It will be great to have a direct flight which will be less expensive and less time consuming and could be useful for business travellers and for International connections. Air Deccan is also planning to start a Bangalore-Madurai flight from October 30th. Already the Railways have increased the AC Coaches in the Tuticorin-Mysore express.

I agree with the fact that atleast some of these local flight connections need to be moved to the night time as well. Due to the fact that almost all the international flights arrive during nights, the people can just move out without a short, expensive, night stays. People will love to travel to the final destination without a hotel stay in the connections.

The focus of real estate dealers has now shifted to Nagamalai Pudukottai, thanks to the Information Technology (IT) Park and TIDEL Park projects announced by the Government.

Hours after Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi made it official that these projects would come up in Madurai and the district administration identified more than 200 acres of land near Madurai Kamaraj University, real estate agents were after landowners and small farmers trying to strike a deal.

Mega projects

Though Nagamalai Pudukottai was not a much sought after area for residential or commercial purpose compared to the New Natham Road, Melur Road and Tirupparankundram Road, the mega projects have now increased the land value.

Expectations are running high on Theni Road where businessmen are exploring possibilities of establishing restaurants, lodges, recreation centres and departmental stores hoping that the IT and TIDEL Parks would require such an infrastructure.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/13/stories/2006091322250200.htm

Tuesday September 12 2006 11:48 IST
MADURAI: Come Sept 15, Madurai will have a seventh flight service to Chennai, thanks to Madurai-based Paramount Airways that is all set to launch its third flight on the sector. Its new evening flight will start operations on Friday.

Announcing the launch of the third flight, its Managing Director M Thiagarajan, in a press conference, said the flight would be connecting Madurai and Hyderabad via Chennai and the airline would shortly launch first class service in its flights connecting the Madurai-Chennai sector.

Paramount, as part of its corporate social responsibility, will offer a 50 percent discount on full fare to senior citizens, besides 50 percent discount to all disabled passengers. Travel for disabled children below 12 years of age would be free in all its flights.

A special group rate for college and school students was also in the offing, under which one ticket for every group of ten students would be given free.

The airline operating 24 flights a day was aimed at enhancing it to 56 next month, Thiagarajan said. Introduction of services between Tirupathi and Vishakapatnam were scheduled for October while a direct flight service between Madurai and Bangalore would be launched in November.

On its plans to connect northern States, Thiagarajan said, “By connecting six prime destinations in the South, the airlines is practically covering South India. However, we would want to saturate South and then make our presence felt at the national-level.”

He expressed the hope that Paramount would make a strong footing in South in a year or two. To a query on the fare for first class, he said, “It would be equal to business class fare.” With an average load factor in the Madurai-Chennai sector standing between 85 and 90 percent, Paramount has proven to be the market leader, he claimed.

Its evening flight is scheduled to leave Chennai at 19 hours and reach Madurai at 19.55 hours. It will then leave Madurai at 20.25 hours and reach Chennai at 21.20 hours.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060912012717&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+%2D+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0&

So, now it's clear that it's going to be a direct flight. Also, 85-90% load factor is awesome in such a short duration since introduction. This augurs well for Madurai and the travellers to/from Madurai. Hope the Bangalore flight also becomes successful. Paramount is the leading airline right now with 3 flights and soon to be 4. They will be the market leader in this routes which should invite more competition from other airlines.

http://www.maalaimalar.com/asp/news/dis_news_article.asp?artid=152795

66,267 houses to come up under this plan. Also, Vaigai river will have walls on the river bed at Rs.7 crores.

Recently, I travelled to Madurai by Air and shocked to see the road connectivity between Airport and the city. Especially when it approaches the downtown near south veli street and all, the road is very narrow.. A new wider road connectivity (preferably 4 laned) should be build avoiding heavily crowded areas.

Or one possibility is to lay a new connecting road between GST road somewhere from Pasumalai/Tirupparankunram to airport becasue GST road is decent and relatively wider...

At any cost, current Aruppukottai road should not be a primary access to Airport...

Recently, I travelled to Madurai by Air and shocked to see the road connectivity between Airport and the city. Especially when it approaches the downtown near south veli street and all, the road is very narrow.. A new wider road connectivity (preferably 4 laned) should be build avoiding heavily crowded areas.

Or one possibility is to lay a new connecting road between GST road somewhere from Pasumalai/Tirupparankunram to airport becasue GST road is decent and relatively wider...

At any cost, current Aruppukottai road should not be a primary access to Airport...

Hi Arvind,
Could you please elaborate about the facilities in the airport itself? How good is the waiting room, trolley facility etc.,?
Regarding the road from Airport to Tirupparankundram/Pasumalai, there is a road already, though only two lanes. It starts near Avaniapuram and reaches Tirupparankundram near the mount close to TCE hostel. This road is more on the rural side but an excellent road(atleast when I travelled more than an year ago).

Hi Arvind,
Could you please elaborate about the facilities in the airport itself? How good is the waiting room, trolley facility etc.,?
Regarding the road from Airport to Tirupparankundram/Pasumalai, there is a road already, though only two lanes. It starts near Avaniapuram and reaches Tirupparankundram near the mount close to TCE hostel. This road is more on the rural side but an excellent road(atleast when I travelled more than an year ago).

Madurai Airport maintanence is relatively good, clean and maintained; though small. Hopefully the airport will be extended, which they are already doing, and bring international standard.

Do anybody have reference to online map of madurai metropolitan region including surrounding areas like airport, university etc..

Hi Arvind,
Could you please elaborate about the facilities in the airport itself? How good is the waiting room, trolley facility etc.,?
Regarding the road from Airport to Tirupparankundram/Pasumalai, there is a road already, though only two lanes. It starts near Avaniapuram and reaches Tirupparankundram near the mount close to TCE hostel. This road is more on the rural side but an excellent road(atleast when I travelled more than an year ago).
Though the airport is very smaller than expected, it is well maintained. I could not explore the airport much because I just saw the arrival area. (I have not departed from the airport so far.). Trolleys were available in sufficient numbers.. I came down by Paramount Airways and really their service is excellent. They charged Rs.3500 but now they have reduced their fares to madurai (i guess around 2000). Now paramount is introducing night time flights.. Do madurai airport has night landing facilities?

Now that air traffic is increasing from couple of flight to 7 flights a day and keeping in future traffic in mind, a much bigger terminal buildings are required. I guess they are going to build new terminal buildings.. Hope they are buiding them with keeping the air traffic in mind for another 25 years... Do anybody have the model of new terminal building coming up?

I somewhere saw proposed trichy terminal buildings... they are awesome..

Though the airport is very smaller than expected, it is well maintained. I could not explore the airport much because I just saw the arrival area. (I have not departed from the airport so far.). Trolleys were available in sufficient numbers.. I came down by Paramount Airways and really their service is excellent. They charged Rs.3500 but now they have reduced their fares to madurai (i guess around 2000). Now paramount is introducing night time flights.. Do madurai airport has night landing facilities?

Now that air traffic is increasing from couple of flight to 7 flights a day and keeping in future traffic in mind, a much bigger terminal buildings are required. I guess they are going to build new terminal buildings.. Hope they are buiding them with keeping the air traffic in mind for another 25 years... Do anybody have the model of new terminal building coming up?

I somewhere saw proposed trichy terminal buildings... they are awesome..
Hi Arvind,
Thanks for your response. Good to hear about Paramount's services. As you mentioned, they reduced the price to Rs.1999.00. Yes, Madurai has night landing facilities. Also, by now Madurai should have ILS to facilitate poor weather landing also. Signalling/lighting is also being upgraded as part of the modernisation program. The proposed terminal building should hold around 400 people at a time. I haven't seen the model so far.

Madurai Airport maintanence is relatively good, clean and maintained; though small. Hopefully the airport will be extended, which they are already doing, and bring international standard.

Thanks Selvam. Do they have baggage carousel or do they bring the bags manually?

Now Madurai has 7 daily flights (Jet 2, Paramount 3, Indian 1, Deccan 1) and in another 1 year I hope it will be around 12 to 15. Following are proposed connectivities to madurai which may happen in another few months
1. Air deccan's Madurai Bangalore direct flight
2. Air deccan's plan to connect Colombo Madurai
3. Air Dravida's flight

And I have lots of hope that we will soon get international connections to Singapore, Kulalumpur, Gulf etc. Once Air Deccan starts its Colombo - Madurai flight, Madurai airport will get customs facilty.. Soon other airlines will introduce international flight..

Now Madurai has 7 daily flights (Jet 2, Paramount 3, Indian 1, Deccan 1) and in another 1 year I hope it will be around 12 to 15. Following are proposed connectivities to madurai which may happen in another few months
1. Air deccan's Madurai Bangalore direct flight
2. Air deccan's plan to connect Colombo Madurai
3. Air Dravida's flight

And I have lots of hope that we will soon get international connections to Singapore, Kulalumpur, Gulf etc. Once Air Deccan starts its Colombo - Madurai flight, Madurai airport will get customs facilty.. Soon other airlines will introduce international flight..

Hi Arvind,
Hope you got a chance to see my response on the previous page regarding night landing.
As per the recent reports, Paramount is planning a direct Madurai-Bangalore flight from November. So, that will be the fourth possible flight. Getting custsoms facility is the issue I guess. Once they have that, I am also optimistic about more international connections. Let's hope that Air Deccan starts their operations to Colombo this October, as they mentioned earlier.

Thanks Selvam. Do they have baggage carousel or do they bring the bags manually?

There is a small baggage carousel. I think eventually they need a bigger one esp. when they have 7 flights a day.

Do anybody have reference to online map of madurai metropolitan region including surrounding areas like airport, university etc..

Hi Mr.Aravind,
Please see Madurai in google earth. You can see tirunagar,TPK,Airport,Avaniapuram areas.

Is there anyone in Madurai now or planning to fly to Madurai?

Do anybody have reference to online map of madurai metropolitan region including surrounding areas like airport, university etc..

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/205/maduraimappi4.jpg

This is the best possible map of Madurai that i could find on the internet. Some of the suburban regions especially towards the north of madurai are not visible.

Refer
www.mapmyindia.com

Thanks Madurai Veeran for the map... If we have a map that covers much larger area, it will be great...

Now state govt abandoned satellite city for chennai... any news about plans for madurai?

The bigger challenge in madurai is having everything around temple... what happened to the plans of shifting them (wholesale markets, vegetable/grains mkts) to outskirts?

It would be nice if all shops (garments, jewellery etc) are also moved out of that place.. but this is almost impossible to happen...

Thanks Vignesh.. This is great !!

Realtors turn towards IT park

The focus of real estate dealers has now shifted to Nagamalai Pudukottai, thanks to the Information Technology (IT) Park and TIDEL Park projects announced by the Government.

Hours after Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi made it official that these projects would come up in Madurai and the district administration identified more than 200 acres of land near Madurai Kamaraj University, real estate agents were after landowners and small farmers trying to strike a deal.

Though Nagamalai Pudukottai was not a much sought after area for residential or commercial purpose compared to the New Natham Road, Melur Road and Tirupparankundram Road, the mega projects have now increased the land value.

Expectations are running high on Theni Road where businessmen are exploring possibilities of establishing restaurants, lodges, recreation centres and departmental stores hoping that the IT and TIDEL Parks would require such an infrastructure.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/13/stories/2006091322250200.htm

There is a small baggage carousel. I think eventually they need a bigger one esp. when they have 7 flights a day.

Thanks Selvam. Definitely they will be needing a bigger one with more and more flights to come.

All decked up for the arrival of D-day

Staff Reporter

More than Rs.40 lakh spent for renovation of Madurai Kamaraj University auditorium

Shastry V. Mallady

MADURAI: The huge auditorium at the Madurai Kamaraj University campus, Mu. Va. Arangu, now wears a new look following massive renovation .

While the ambience of this 1,000-seat capacity hall is improved, the university authorities have attached more importance to the comfort aspects from seating to dais location.

More than Rs. 40 lakh was spent on the renovation and the extension work undertaken for the building.

The annual convocation takes place in this hall every year in the presence of the Governor and the Education Minister.

Flooring was redone and additional rooms with air-conditioning facility were constructed on the ground floor for the convenience of the Chancellor and guests.

The seating capacity has been increased and a permanent dais has been constructed. Vice-Chancellor P. Maruthamuthu said that Rs. 1 lakh would be spent additionally for installing a good public address system next week.

As the painting of the entire building was completed recently, the first official function was conducted on the Teacher's Day (September 5) when the Vice-Chancellor addressed the faculty members. "I feel happy seeing this hall. It is a matter of pride to have an auditorium of high standards," Dr. Maruthamuthu said on Wednesday.

The next big function will be the convocation in November.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/14/stories/2006091409690200.htm

The Government is to invite expressions of interest (EOIs) in October from private parties interested in participating in the city-side development of 35 non-metro airports, said Mr Ajay Prasad, Secretary (Civil Aviation), said on Wednesday.

"The consultants' reports for development of 25 non-metro airports have already been received and we should get reports on the rest in the next few weeks," he added.

"We plan to issue the EOIs for the city-side development of these airports in October itself ". He also said that at these airports, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) would make the necessary investment for the development of aero facilities.

City-side development

The selected private parties would be allowed to develop airport hotels, run food courts, restaurants or operate parking lots, the Secretary said. He was speaking on the sidelines of the third Indo-US economic Summit, organised by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce.

The 35 non-metro airports identified by the Government include those in cities of tourist interest apart from others in some State capitals.

"The process of modernising these 35 non-metro airports will be completed within four years. Initially, we will look to develop airports where land is easily available," Mr Prasad said.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/14/stories/2006091401440700.htm

"The process of modernising these 35 non-metro airports will be completed within four years. Initially, we will look to develop airports where land is easily available," http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/14/stories/2006091401440700.htm
This would mean Madurai project will be developed in the initial phase.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has drawn up a plan for a phase-wise development of the non-metro airports that includes the development of passenger terminal buildings and land use.
In Phase I, it is proposed to develop 10 airports — including those at Thiruvananthapuram, Madurai, Mangalore, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Guwahati, Goa and Lucknow.
The cost of developing the 10 non-metro airports in the first phase has been estimated at Rs 1,874 crore. The project for developing secondary airports will roll out in 2006-07 and be completed by 2008-09.
http://www.blonnet.com/2005/11/28/stories/2005112800460600.htm

As per this early news the development of Madurai airport would be taken up in the first phase. Also since there is plenty of land available for airport expansion it could be an added advantage.

This would mean Madurai project will be developed in the initial phase.

Yes. Madurai is supposed to be in the first phase along with 9 other airports. Trichy and Coimbatore are supposed to be in the second phase. But, so far we have seen only the Trichy airport model while there is no news about the Madurai airport terminal. Is Madurai airport terminal renovation getting re-prioritised? I hope not.

Yes. Madurai is supposed to be in the first phase along with 9 other airports. Trichy and Coimbatore are supposed to be in the second phase. But, so far we have seen only the Trichy airport model while there is no news about the Madurai airport terminal. Is Madurai airport terminal renovation getting re-prioritised? I hope not.
Looks like Trichy is moved up in priority... There is somebody who is stealing projects from madurai to trichy etc.. i dont know what madurai MPs and other representatives are doing... This is madurai MP Mohan's email id.. pmohan@sansad.nic.in i am going to shoot an email about this and other projects... guys, you and your friends also can send emails to him...
Madurai is always getting raw deal.. this shud not happen further... we have to protest..

Thanks Arvind for giving that mail id. Let me shoot one email to him as well. But, the MP from Madurai is not that popular in terms of weightage, due to his party. He has been voicing for better facilities, but he doesn't have enough power to get the powers be to listen. I agree with you that Madurai gets raw deal in most cases.

Thanks Arvind for giving that mail id. Let me shoot one email to him as well. But, the MP from Madurai is not that popular in terms of weightage, due to his party. He has been voicing for better facilities, but he doesn't have enough power to get the powers be to listen. I agree with you that Madurai gets raw deal in most cases.
Following is the email I have sent to MP.

Dear Sir,
According to the plans, Madurai was one of first 10 airports out of 35 non-metro airports to be developed to internationsl standards. But I guess Trichy airport work is being done instead of madurai. An an MP, you have to voice the concern and push Madurai airport for earlier development.

Please concentrate on required infrastructure for madurai as people are depending on people like you for the region's economic development.

You have been MP of madurai for past 7 years but there was no significant projects brought to Madurai. Please be aware of your responsibilities and do the needful for Madurai people.

Thanks,
Aravindan M

The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved road improvement works in Tamil Nadu.

A sum of Rs. 373.24 Lakh has been sanctioned for the work of Improvement of Riding Quality in Km 28/0 to km 31/0; km 45 to km 53/0 and km 54 to km 56/0 of Madurai-Rameshwaram road on NH-49 in Tamil Nadu.

http://pib.nic.in/release/release.asp?relid=20701

http://img95.imageshack.us/img95/2622/tirumangalamprstn3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

News and Picture, Courtesy Dinamalar.

Five railway stations in Madurai Division to be given face-lift

Five railway stations in the Madurai Division - Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Virudhanagar, Madurai and Dindugal, will be given a face-lift at a total cost of Rs 12 crore, said, Rajagoundar, General Manager (in-charge), Southern Railways.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060915011812&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

Madurai, Sept 17: A paediatric oncology centre, which would give an impetus to the child cancer care in Tamil Nadu, would be opened at the Madurai Meenakshi Mission Hospital and Research Centre (MMHRC) here.


Founder of the New York-based Child Cancer Fund, Jaya Bose said his organisation would fund the centre to train paediatric oncologists. Bose, who works with the Child Care Centre in New York Medical College, told reporters that he would also render his service in setting up the centre.


"A child cancer treatment centre was a must for Tamil Nadu where 2,600 children were becoming cancer patients every year," he said.


Out of 2,600 children, only 1,000 children got good treatment. Comprehensive care centres and trained professionals were important. None of the child cancer centres in the state had training programme in paediatric oncology, he added.


With MMHRC starting the training programme, from 2009, Tamil Nadu would have two more paediatric oncologists every year.


Dr N Sethuraman, CEO, MMHRC, said he was committed to child cancer treatment programme. With more paediatric oncologists in the state, more hospitals in Tamil Nadu, especially in smaller cities like Tirunelveli, Tiruchirappalli and Coimbatore, would develop expertise in treating children with cancer.


MMHRC's infrastructure facilities would be used to train paediatric oncologists and a cancer ward would be built to meet the needs of the patients. (Agencies)


http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID=%7B757ABE96-505B-4616-A06B-15073FF84D0F%7D&CATEGORYNAME=Tamil+Nadu

Low cost flier Air Deccan announced on Tuesday the launch of new daily flights to the temple towns of Madurai and Tirupati from Bangalore from October 30.
The flights would be serviced by a 48-seater aircraft, Air Deccan said in a release here.

According to the schedule, flight DN407 would leave Bangalore at 10.55 a.m. and reach Tirupati at 11.45 a.m. It would reach Vishakapatnam from Tirupati at 1.40 p.m. In the return journey, flight DN408 would leave Vishakapatnam at 1.55 p.m., reach Tirupati at 3.50 p.m. and Bangalore at 4.40 p.m.

The daily Bangalore-Madurai flight DN105 would leave Bangalore at 3 p.m. and reach its destination at 4.30 p.m. In the return journey, flight DN106 would leave Madurai at 4.45 p.m. and reach here at 6.15 p.m.

Air Deccan also announced the launch of new flights to Jaipur via Mumbai to be serviced by an airbus A320.

Low cost flier Air Deccan announced on Tuesday the launch of new daily flights to the temple towns of Madurai and Tirupati from Bangalore from October 30. The flights would be serviced by a 48-seater aircraft, Air Deccan said in a release here. According to the schedule, flight DN407 would leave Bangalore at 10.55 a.m. and reach Tirupati at 11.45 a.m. It would reach Vishakapatnam from Tirupati at 1.40 p.m. In the return journey, flight DN408 would leave Vishakapatnam at 1.55 p.m., reach Tirupati at 3.50 p.m. and Bangalore at 4.40 p.m. The daily Bangalore-Madurai flight DN105 would leave Bangalore at 3 p.m. and reach its destination at 4.30 p.m. In the return journey, flight DN106 would leave Madurai at 4.45 p.m. and reach here at 6.15 p.m. Air Deccan also announced the launch of new flights to Jaipur via Mumbai to be serviced by an airbus A320.

http://epaper.newindpress.com/artMailDisp.aspx?article=20_09_2006_006_015&typ=1
-----------------
Atlast, the official news came on this as per, The New Indian express report.

Glomac Bhd is looking to venture into the Vietnam and Indian property markets through joint ventures as part of its expansion plan and to compensate for the slowdown in demand for local properties, said its managing director Datuk Fateh Iskandar Mohamed Mansor.

He said the company was looking to buy parcels of land in major cities in the two countries for either mixed township or residential development, and hoped to announce a deal within the next six months.

He said Glomac was looking at six major cities in India, namely Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Calcutta and Madurai, and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam for the expansion drive.

http://www.theedgedaily.com/cms/content.jsp?id=com.tms.cms.article.Article_ca4809ba-cb73c03a-19214b10-c7ab0559

The centre in a written letter has been urged to extend Integrated Textile Park Scheme along with the Technology Upgradation fund Scheme (TUFS) for the next Five Year Plan, Handloom and Textiles Industry Minister N.K.K.P. Raja said here on September 15.

The extension was sought to further enhance investments in the textile industry as after the announcement of these two schemes during the current five-year plan, many entrepreneurs had come forward to invest heavily and had paved the way for the rapid growth of textile industry.

Raja also asked the centre to allot 10 more integrated parks to Tamil Nadu and also suggested the ceiling limit under the TUF scheme should be increased to Rs. 3 crore from Rs. 1 crore for the benefit of small power loom owners.

He further informed that various hi-tech weaving, apparel and processing parks being set up in Tamil Nadu were expected to attract an investment of about Rs. 3,000 crore and provide direct employment to about 34,000 persons.

With the financial assistance from both the Central and the State Governments two parks were established at Tirupur and Irungattukottai near Chennai, while three high-tech weaving parks were being established in power loom centres at Kumarapalayam, Andipatti and Palladam under the export scheme.

The central government has also given approval for establishment of integrated textile parks at Erode, Kumarapalayam and Chengampalli, while proposal has been sent to the Centre for setting up Madurai Integrated Textile Park.

The construction of new plants apart, Fenner India is also modernising its oil seal plant in Chennai. The company has bought latest presses and is looking at different kinds of mouldings. Fenner India has also changed the layout of its Madurai plant. "We have budgetted around Rs15 crore for modernising our production facilities."

http://www.domain-b.com/companies/companies_f/fenner_india/20060925_restructured.html

56 projects costing Rs.3565.40 crore have been sanctioned for 20 cities during the current financial year 2006-07 (as on 22.09.2006) under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission. These cities are Hyderabad, Vishakapatnam, Vijayawada, Chandigarh, Raipur, Nanded, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara, Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Pune, Greater Mumbai, Nagpur, Amritsar, Madurai, Asansol and Kolkata. Rs. 147.42 Crore have been released as first installment of Central Government’s total share of Rs.589.69 crore in respect of 33 projects costing Rs.1317.99 crore. Release of first installment of Union Government’s share amounting to Rs. 291.04 crore in respect of balance 23 projects costing Rs.2247.41 crore is under process.

Each Mission City is entitled to apply for further installments of funds subject to utilization of funds released as well as implementation of reforms by adhering to timeliness indicated in tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between the Centre, the State and the Urban Local Body. The Ministry as and when such requests are received fulfilling these criteria will release funds.

Since the launch of the Mission, 79 projects at a total approved project cost of Rs.4430.23 crore have been sanctioned as on 22.09.2006 under the Mission. Out of these, 32 projects relate to water supply with total cost of Rs. 1829.59 crore (41.30%), 18 are of sewerage projects costing Rs.1281.83 crore (28.93%), 14 projects worth Rs.710.56 crore (16.03%) are meant for storm water drainage, 8 relate to road/flyovers/road over bridges projects amounting to total cost of Rs.292.25 (6.60%), 1 project costing Rs.8.67 crore (0.20%) is for solid waste management, 3 projects worth Rs.62.15 crore (1.40%) are for urban renewal and 3 are meant for Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) with a total cost of Rs.245.18 crore (5.53%).

In the last quarter of financial year 2005-06, Ministry of Urban Development sanctioned 23 projects costing Rs.864.83 for eight cities viz. Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, Bhopal, Indore and Nagpur and released Rs. 90.11 crore as first installment from Centre’s total share of Rs.367.36 Crore under Sub-Mission on Urban Infrastructure and Governance.

Thrust of Sub-Mission on Urban Infrastructure and Governance under Jawararlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, JNNURM is to comprehensively address basic services in select cities viz. Water supply, sewerage, solid waste management, storm water drainage, comprehensive urban transport and urban renewal.

Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission was launched on 3rd December 2005.

State and citywise funds released during 2005-06 and 2006-07 for implementation of JNNURM are as follows:

(Rs. In lakh)

(As on 22.09.2006)

Tamil Nadu Madurai - 741.45



http://pib.nic.in/release/release.asp?relid=20938

MADITSSIA team meets President
Tuesday September 26 2006 11:13 IST
MADURAI: The implementation of PURA, the dream project of President APJ Abdul Kalam, will be more effective and successful by involving local agencies and industries and the Madurai District Tiny and Small Scale Industries Association (MADITSSIA) has expressed its willingness in taking up the initiative at the district level.

This was one of the major points conveyed by the office-bearers when they met President Kalam during his official visit the other day.

According to a press release received, the MADITSSIA also put forth the request to the President for taking part in interactive sessions on a regular basis through video conferencing with students of semi-urban and rural regions.

The MADITSSIA members also discussed with the President about the interlinking of rivers to benefit the entire belt of southern Tamil Nadu, the setting up of integrated IT park and CFTRI branch at Madurai.

The Association also requested the First Citizen to do the needful within his capacity to give mandates to technical institutes to develop rapport with associations like MADITSSIA for the benefit of providing practical entrepreneur development training to the students.

The sketching of meticulous town plans for all major urban areas was also sought by the association as most of the cities in the country are briskly growing in a haphazard manner without any planning whatsoever, and thereby leading to the growth of slums and other related problems.

The change of site proposed for the setting up of All India Institute of Medical Sciences and its hospital from Madurai to Tiruchy was also requested by the association to be reconsidered as Madurai is reeling under the huge losses suffered due to the closure of a number of textile mills and there is a dire need for fresh capital infusion.

The MADITSSIA representatives requested the President to suggest the officials concerned to reconsider the proposal to shift the Aviation Academy, initially announced to be set up here by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi, to another site in Sriperumpudur.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060926005156&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

56 projects costing Rs.3565.40 crore have been sanctioned for 20 cities during the current financial year 2006-07 (as on 22.09.2006) under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission. These cities are Hyderabad, Vishakapatnam, Vijayawada, Chandigarh, Raipur, Nanded, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara, Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Pune, Greater Mumbai, Nagpur, Amritsar, Madurai, Asansol and Kolkata. Rs. 147.42 Crore have been released as first installment of Central Government’s total share of Rs.589.69 crore in respect of 33 projects costing Rs.1317.99 crore. Release of first installment of Union Government’s share amounting to Rs. 291.04 crore in respect of balance 23 projects costing Rs.2247.41 crore is under process.

Atleast now TN has awaken to utilise the benifits of the JNNURM, while states like MH, AP have awailed the benifit from last year itself. Though the fund allocated for Madurai in the first installment is like a drop in the ocean when compared to the total amount of 3500 crore promised. The best part is that Madurai is the first and the only city in TN to awail the funds. I hope Chennai and Coimbatore also follow soon. I hope Madurai utilises the funds wisely which could lead to further allocation of funds.

The MADITSSIA members also discussed with the President about the interlinking of rivers to benefit the entire belt of southern Tamil Nadu, the setting up of integrated IT park and CFTRI branch at Madurai.[/B]

The change of site proposed for the setting up of All India Institute of Medical Sciences and its hospital from Madurai to Tiruchy was also requested by the association to be reconsidered.

The MADITSSIA representatives requested the President to suggest the officials concerned to reconsider the proposal to shift the Aviation Academy, initially announced to be set up here by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi, to another site in Sriperumpudur.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20060926005156&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

The general public and associations like MADITSSIA should take sincere and committed efforts to get back lost projects for Madurai like AIIMS, Aviation University due to silly politics by polliticians.

The general public and associations like MADITSSIA should take sincere and committed efforts to get back lost projects for Madurai like AIIMS, Aviation University due to silly politics by polliticians.

Well said, Madurai veeran. Actually, MADITSSIA could have included other influential associations like TN Chamber of Commerce in giving their suggestions/requests to the president. Losing AIIMS is bigger to Madurai than even the Aviation University.
Recently I read news articles saying Trichy and Coimbatore getting Cricket Academy. Nothing for Madurai or the whole of South. I feel that Madurai and South are getting neglected in all aspects by all the parties. They just implement one or two things to keep the people quiet.
Madurai Airport renovation also seems to be in the dark now. Runway extension is done. More flights are coming and going. But, the terminal work hasn't started yet. There seems to be no sign of that happening. God knows what kind of politics is involved in this.

S. Annamalai

Pudu Mandapam, built by Tirumalai Nayak, will get new lease of life

MADURAI: This monument, an artistic marvel created by King Tirumalai Nayak, has remained half hidden from the public eye for long.

In the past few decades, it has served as a commercial complex housing tailoring units, books stores and shops selling steel and brass vessels. The core area is the home of bats and other nocturnal birds. Pudu Mandapam is all set to have a facelift and regain its glory as a major attraction for tourists.

The mandapam is located on the eastern side of the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple, sandwiched between East Chithirai and East Masi Streets. It has 50 ornate sculptures that have been in a state of neglect for long. They include a beautifully carved Sankara Narayanan, Tatatakai (mother of Meenakshi), Gaja Samharar, Brahma, Kalyanasundarar and galloping horses and yalis. Seven of the 64 `tiruvilayadal' (divine sport) of Lord Sundareswarar are depicted in stone. It also has portrait figures of the Nayak rulers till Tirumalai Nayak. It is 333 feet in length, 105 feet in width and 25 feet in height. One hundred and twenty-four immaculately sculpted pillars add to the grandeur of the place by standing on four rows. At the western end is a granite stage, used for cultural performances during temple festivals since the late 17th century. An interesting belief associated with the mandapam, which is also referred to as `Vasantha Mandapam,' is that Tamil poet Paranjothi Munivar was inspired to write `Tiruvilayadal Puranam' here, while it was under construction.

The Tourism Department has embarked on a plan to breathe new life into this monument, starting with the shifting of 160 shops to the nearby Kunnathur Chatram.

According to Tourism Secretary V. Irai Anbu, the Archaeological Survey of India will be involved in the exercise. After the structure was renovated at an estimated cost of Rs 2.4 crore, the department, together with the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple, will organise cultural events daily.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/28/stories/2006092806490600.htm

CHENNAI: Passport offices are likely to be opened in Madurai and Coimbatore by the first quarter of next year.

An indication to this was given by the Union Minister of State for External Affairs, E. Ahamed, in a communication to the Union Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Dayanidhi Maran, said a press release from the latter's office.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/28/stories/2006092824820300.htm

S. Annamalai

Pudu Mandapam, built by Tirumalai Nayak, will get new lease of life http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/28/stories/2006092806490600.htm

I love Puthumandapam, its a wonderful architechture hidden within boutiques.
Great news! its a good move to decongest the city center as well. If someone need to walk through the road in front of the Puthumandapam, its like crossing a high way crossing. Also shopping inside the Puthumandapam is a jeopardies. The spot is so critical because its just closer to the entrance of the temple with the only straight line view to the inner most praharam from the outside of the temple. so the crowd is dragged up during every puja.

The opening up the mandapam enable the connection of the mandapam to 'Yelu kadal veethi' which is also a religious spot and heavily crowded part. Hope they will move the shops from there too. All the shops there too, like in Puthumandapam, are basically for village shoppers, and Govt. can install a mall or something specially for these low income shops. It will help their survival as well as decongest the narrow roads and temple structures.

The Southern Railway has sent a detailed proposal to the Railway Board for the electrification and doubling from Chennai to Tuticorin at a total cost of Rs. 2,000 crore, Southern Railway General Manager Thomas Varghese has said.

Addressing the media here on Wednesday, he said the single line section was "choked" and the Railways were unable to run more trains in this sector. The proposal has been drawn up keeping this in mind.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/29/stories/2006092902550500.htm

MADURAI: Medical bills are taking a major share out of a family's budget, more so in the case of patients with chronic ailments .

With the patients looking for ways to meet mounting expenses, some organisations are showing a way by offering treatment at subsidised rates.

One such initiative taking shape in Madurai is a 5-bed subsidised dialysis unit on Madakulam Main Road in Palanganatham, thanks to the Tamil Nadu Kidney Research Foundation (TANKER), which is opening its third centre on October 8. The unit will have three machines and dialysis will be performed at a subsidised rate of Rs. 450. There are several donors behind the Madurai centre and film actor Surya, will inaugurate the centre.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/29/stories/2006092903990200.htm

The Southern Railway has sent a detailed proposal to the Railway Board for the electrification and doubling from Chennai to Tuticorin at a total cost of Rs. 2,000 crore, Southern Railway General Manager Thomas Varghese has said.

Addressing the media here on Wednesday, he said the single line section was "choked" and the Railways were unable to run more trains in this sector. The proposal has been drawn up keeping this in mind.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/29/stories/2006092902550500.htm

While this has been in the news for some time, there seems to be no approval from Railway board yet. Also, while SR has been proposing for such a big project worth Rs.2000 crores, there doesn't seem to be enough pressure from them to the Railway board in expediting the already approved Madurai-Dindigul doubling which costs about Rs.110+ crores. Infact, this was estimated to be around 90+ crores initially and due to the slackness in implementing this project, the cost is increasing every year.

Voltage yo-yoing will soon be a thing of the past for the capital city. The 400/ 220-KV Thiruvananthapuram sub-station, to be commissioned on Thursday, augurs well for the power prospects of the state.

And as far as the city is concerned, the sub-station will help it bid goodbye to its power woes.

The Rs 257-crore power transmission system, built by the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) — a Central Government enterprise — at Pallippuram near here, would link the city directly to the 400-KV grid solving power-related problems, PGCIL officials said.

Union Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde will dedicate the power transmission system, consisting of the sub-station and a 432-circuit km Thiruvananthapuram-Madurai transmission line, to the nation on Thursday.

The power transmission system is part of the Southern Region System Strengthening Scheme to provide a second 400-KV feed to Kerala from the Central sector.

The new Thiruvananthapuram-Madurai double-circuit line will enable the state to draw its allocated Central share of power, PGCIL officials said.

Though the state is drawing power from the 400-KV sub-station at Thrissur, (which is linked to the line from Udumalpet in Tamil Nadu), it could not draw the allocated Central share owing to the lack of infrastructure.

With the commissioning of the sub-station at Pallippuram, this problem will be solved, a PGCIL official said.

With the establishment of the system, the capital city, which is one of the major load centres of the state, has been directly connected to the 400-KV grid enabling reliable power supply to industries and the Technopark.

In the long run too, the state stands to benefit from the new system.

The state can now plan for increasing the diversity of the load while optimising the state grid. It also ensures drawing of additional share/allocation from the proposed generating stations, including the Koodamkulam Atomic Power Project.

As such, the district is facing problems in electricity distribution with the distribution barely meeting the consumer demands.

The total number of consumers of the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) in the district is well over 2.25 lakh.

This, coupled with a number of problems such as power loss during transmission and power theft, provides a bleak future.

Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan will be the chief guest at the commissioning of the sub-station. Electricity Minister A K Balan and Revenue Minister K P Rajendran will also attend the function.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IEO20061003233321&Page=O&Title=Thiruvananthapuram&Topic=0

It is heartening to know that at least now people are concerned about the development of Madurai and nearby towns.

We all have to accept one fact that even now Madurai is perceived as GLORIFIED VILLAGE. It acts like a modern shandy depending on the floating population. Except for the TVS family (may be Sanmar group, PGP group, Rajapalayam and Kovilpatti mills), no major industries have been started for a long time.

IT/ ITES may be a vehicle for a quicker development but the other industries are more stable and long lasting. English language is still a taboo in most of the tamil medium schools (even english medium school children are not able to speak good english). The competitive edge is missing while comparing to other students.(this is in spite of the fact that some of the old colleges in this region are still doing well).

Entrepreneurship which is widespread in small and tiny business has not blossomed in the medium and high end business. Even though I am a native of Srivilliputtur, I could not accomplish my business plans in Madurai region and forced to start in Chennai. Formidable obstacles include lack of exposure, listless wiling away of prime time by youth, local politics, lack of infrastructure, lack of quality talent etc. Passion can not be the only factor for any business.

Unless the ground realities change for the better, we will all be repeating the same arguments. This responsibility lies entirely with the public and the business people of the region. When we get satisfied with freebies, how can we aim for better things in life?

It is heartening to know that at least now people are concerned about the development of Madurai and nearby towns.
We all have to accept one fact that even now Madurai is perceived as GLORIFIED VILLAGE. It acts like a modern shandy depending on the floating population. Except for the TVS family (may be Sanmar group, PGP group, Rajapalayam and Kovilpatti mills), no major industries have been started for a long time.
IT/ ITES may be a vehicle for a quicker development but the other industries are more stable and long lasting. English language is still a taboo in most of the tamil medium schools (even english medium school children are not able to speak good english). The competitive edge is missing while comparing to other students.(this is in spite of the fact that some of the old colleges in this region are still doing well).
Entrepreneurship which is widespread in small and tiny business has not blossomed in the medium and high end business. Even though I am a native of Srivilliputtur, I could not accomplish my business plans in Madurai region and forced to start in Chennai. Formidable obstacles include lack of exposure, listless wiling away of prime time by youth, local politics, lack of infrastructure, lack of quality talent etc. Passion can not be the only factor for any business.
Unless the ground realities change for the better, we will all be repeating the same arguments. This responsibility lies entirely with the public and the business people of the region. When we get satisfied with freebies, how can we aim for better things in life?

I have to disagree with most of your opinion with respect to Madurai. I think this is a misunderstanding between Madurai city and Madurai region. Madurai city is the mutual evaluation parter, for government examinations, with Chennai city. While Madurai region goes with atleast a hundred villages around which will fall into your view.
Almost 90% of the educated youths have to leave the city after their education, which means that there is a constant immigration of villagers and emigration of city people to work places is actively going on. This is absolutely true for each and every Engineers, Doctors, Researchers and Business graduates. The city has a big brain drain, but has a constant supply of new brains, from villages, to get trained.
Mater of fact, Madurai have some of the best schools in TN that insist for very high English standard and spoken English ex. like TVS schools, Vikasa, SBOA, SDA, Dolphin, Jeevana, etc. While with reference to colleges AC, LDC, MC, FC are insisting on good standard of spoken English. I have seen some Tamil medium school with very good reputation, like St.Marys, St.Joseph, St.Brito, Mangayarkarasi, etc.
With respect to competitive spirit, I am not sure about other field, but with respect to Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology and Molecular biology Madurai leads in India. But still there is no biotech companies in the region.
I agree with the fact about Entrepreneurship, that Madurai lack that tendency generaly. The reason is quiet simple as its an agricultural heart land for a very long period of time. Madurai city center is just a full and full buzaar, nothing else. When the buzaars gets proper places out of the city, I hope the city people will think about the emptyness and start to do something exciting.

Only the Government and Politicians has to be blamed for the current state of Madurai. They neglected Madurai from early stages itself and pushed growth of Coimbatore and Trichy. For industrial growth, a city needs following basic infrastructure
1. Road access. They have not planned for the city properly and laid any new roads (except recently laid ring road) or did not widen existing roads. They allowed every commercial activity to be centered around temple which is a great bottleneck now. Bridges across river and railway lines were built too narrow without having future traffic in mind.
2. Rail connectivity. Just last decade only Madurai got broad gauge. While coimbatore got it long back and it got double lines with electrification too.
3. Educational institutions. Government has not even set up a single engineering college in Madurai. Ciombatore got CIT and Trichy got prestigious REC. Now anna varsitities are to be setup only in coimbatore and trichy. Madurai neglected again even being third largest city in TN. Worst case, madurai does not even got Govt arts college. (Threre is one for women only)
4. Air connectivity. Despite being a second largest city in TN (at that time), international airport went to Trichy.
5. Underground drainage and water. Just recently madurai is getting some underground drainage.. still most of areas doesnt have it.. where other cities got them early.
6. No industry started here. Trichy actually transformed into a city from town with the help of BHEL only. Like this NO big industries were brought to Madurai by the government.

Above are very important infrastructure for any city to grow properly. Now, tell me, whose problem it is... certainly politicians to be blamed..

In last (and present) DMK regime, few important development came like high court, ring road and few bridges... Otherwise nothing was done for madurai by any party in any period..

Now, here are positive aspects of Madurai city in spite of being ignored by government..

1. Education. Education quality is good in MAdurai and competitive enough with coimbatore and trichy. MKU is 5 star rated and got Potential center for excellence. Matriculation students in Madurai speaks decent english.
2. Transportation. City bus facilities are decent here.
3. Air connectivty. Now madurai is well connectied with chennai, bangalore and mumbai with about 7 daily flights. international services are going to start
4. Cost of living. It is less compared to chennai and coimbatore.
5. Land costs. Land costs are reasonable here compared to chennai and coimbatore.
6. Human resources. Madurai produces quality graduates. 40% of software engineers are from southern districts.. Also the labour cost is low here.
7. Madurai is country's second largest bullion market after mumbai.
8. Madurai has many star hotels like Taj, Fortune Pandiyan, Germanus Days Inn, Ashok, Sangam, Park Inn etc
9. Madurai has good hospitals like Aravind, Meenakshi Mission, Apollo etc

Madurai-Chennai double decker trains sought

MADURAI: The Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the Southern Railways to introduce double decker train services between Madurai and Chennai, similar to those introduced by Western Railway in Pune-Mumbai and Surat-Mumbai sections.
The demand was made in a memorandum submitted to the Southern Railway General Manager Thomas Varghese during his recent visit to the city.
According to a press release from the chamber, the introduction of the double decker facility will reduce the prevailing traffic congestion and demand in the sector.
The chamber also appealed for the early completion of the reconnaissance engineering-cum-traffic survey of Madurai-Kottayam sector and the subsequent implementation of the project, which would promote trade and also provide a link between Tuticorin and Cochin harbours.
Another demand put forward by the chamber was the establishment of computer reservation centre on the eastern side of Madurai at Teppakulam to cater to the needs of passengers from that side.
The sprucing up of East Madurai Railway Station with all basic amenities against the backdrop of the resumption of train services in Madurai-Manamadurai section and expected service resumption in Madurai-Rameswaram sector was also pointed out during the parley.
MADITSSIA DEMAND: The Madurai District Tiny & Small Scale Industries Association (MADITSSIA) in its memorandum submitted to the general manager during the same meeting, requested for one more day train in Madurai-Bangalore route and the introduction of a new train between Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram.
Apart from that, MADITSSIA demanded the introduction of a direct train between Madurai and Tirupathi, extension of services of Tenkasi-Chennai train on a daily basis, extension of Bodinaickanur line up to Kottayam for the benefit of Sabarimala pilgrims and laying of new track between Kanyakumari and Chengalpet.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20061004013651&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+%2D+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0&

Dear Friends,
I am really happy to see some healthy debates about Madurai. I was thinking that this forum is mainly used for sharing some latest news which we get from dailies anyways. Apart from some minor discussions about the news once in a while, there wasn't much debate on anything about the city or the region in general. Since, some of you have initiated these discussions, let me join the fray.

Perception
It's a general perception that Madurai is a big village. It might have been true a decade or 15 years ago, but not today. The perception is pretty much similar to what people think about Chennai, while comparing it to Bangalore or other metros. Madurai certainly has grown by its own standards to a full fledged city.

Education
As mentioned by some of you, Madurai has some excellent schools and colleges. But, sadly none of the governments came forward to establish any good colleges in Madurai. Still, Madurai produces talent consistently and you could see students from Madurai working everywhere in the world. TCE is the first college to fill in the seats for this year as per reports.

Infrastructure
Madurai is lacking in this aspect and its the government of the past and present who need to be blamed for this.
Despite having a higher percentage of people working abroad from Madurai and South, the Madurai airport has been neglected for many years. Even now, despite figuring in the first list of airports to be renovated, the terminal improvement seems to be put in the dark while some other cities in the second or third phase has been pushed forward. Even the government carrier "Indian" doesn't want to connect Madurai with more destinations.
In terms of Railways also, Madurai was put in the back burner citing lack of industries. The industries inturn didn't grow up citing the lack of a Broad Gauge connectivity.
The highways are ok for the city, but the ring road came after a long fight and is not being utilised. But, roads need to be maintained better inside the city and JNNURM should help in this.

Industries
It is true that the people from Madurai and surroundings lack in starting new industries compared to some other cities like Coimbatore. We still have a bunch of TVS group of companies, Madura Coats(though it's not doing well now, I believe), Fenner, lots of textile mills, MEPCO, Vaigai group of companies etc., Let's not forget the Tourism industry.
Even here, the city has all these industries without the government support in most of the cases. There is no single heavy industry from the Central government in this region or city. Only now, state government has announced a SIPCOT in the state budget. But, there is no news after that. God knows when and where it will come up.
For IT, the ministers are talking about Madurai as Tier-II destination and mentioned about some parks. Let's see how soon they act on it. Atleast, we have Honeywell as a good example to start IT operations in Madurai.

------------

In my opinion, Madurai has been neglected forever by almost all the governments whether it's Colleges, Railways, Industries, Airports, Hospitals etc., etc., Anyone who gets educated well in Madurai, has to leave the place and work somewhere. That's the sad state of affairs.

TVS Interconnect Systems (TVS-ICS) has entered into a collaboration with Australian antenna manufacturer Aurgus Technologies is to to manufacture India's first cellular base station antennas.

Aurgus will provide technical support to TVS-ICS to make antennas at the latter's Vallaripatti unit, John Bonello, MD of Aurgus, said today.

The tie-up would significantly bring down costs, saving on freight expenditure and the antennas would come with a one-year warranty, T K Basu, president of TVS-ICS, said.

Initially the unit would rollout 25,000 antennas per year. The company, which started with an initial investment of Rs 7 crore will go up to Rs 50 crore in the next two- three years after the expansion, he added.

http://www.business-standard.com/common/storypage_c.php?leftnm=11&bKeyFlag=IN&autono=6522

Tiruchy based eye care hospital chain - Vasan Health Care - has embarked on an expansion spree, with plans to construct 10 more hospitals across India and launch 30 more pharmacy outlets in the State.

Talking to reporters here on Wednesday, Vasan Health Care Chairman A M Arun said that ten hospitals would be added to the existing eight, by March 2007.

The hospitals would come up at Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam in Kerala, Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore in Karnataka and Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Vellore and Kancheepuram in Tamil Nadu.

In the next phase, further expansion would be taken up in Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata and by 2010, the group would have 50 eye hospitals across the nation.

This expansion would position Vasan group as the largest eye care provider in the world, Arun claimed.

This apart, 30 pharmacy outlets, in addition to the existing 10 in Tiruchy, would be launched at Thanjavur, Coimbatore, Madurai and Salem.

He said the works, taken up at a cost of Rs 100 crores, was in progress. The group has set a target of the present turnover of Rs 100 crore to Rs 250 crore by December 2007, he said.

The flagship company is also going in for its first IPO offer in 2007.

As part of consolidation and bringing in uniformity for this purpose, Dr Agarwal Vasans Eye Hospital in Tiruchy and Salem would now be branded as Vasan Health Care, he said.

The group has also planned set foot in academics. College of Optometry would soon be launched in Tiruchy.

We are also awaiting approval from Medical Council of India for offering three-year diploma programmes, Arun said.

City Corporation Commissioner B Balachandran giving away a certificate to K Socrates, at a blood donation camp held at Woraiyur on Wednesday, for donating blood more than 25 times.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20061005022234&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

Medical Tourism - Madurai

The other field which is up and growing rapidly is the Medical Tourism industry. People from Europe, Middle East and rest of Asia are looking at India because of its cost effective health care service. Madurai could easily capitalise on this due to the good health care facilities already available here. Madurai has well renowned hospitals like the Apollo hospital, Aravind Eye hospital, Meenakshi Mission hospital, Madurai Kidney Centre & Transplantation Research Institute and Vadamalayan Hospital to name a few.

Madurai has all the ingredients to become a medical tourism hub except that it does not have direct air connectivity to the rest of the world. To turn this around associations like the MADITSSIA, CII and local politicians must strive hard to get air connectivity to destinations such as Singapore, Malayasia, Srilanka, and the middle east. Medical tourism could become a multi million dollar industry in the next decade. I hope they work towards acheiving this dream instead of pondering over the missed oppurtunity at a later stage which is often the case with Madurai.

TVS Interconnect Systems (TVS-ICS) has entered into a collaboration with Australian antenna manufacturer Aurgus Technologies is to to manufacture India's first cellular base station antennas.

Aurgus will provide technical support to TVS-ICS to make antennas at the latter's Vallaripatti unit, John Bonello, MD of Aurgus, said today.

The tie-up would significantly bring down costs, saving on freight expenditure and the antennas would come with a one-year warranty, T K Basu, president of TVS-ICS, said.

Initially the unit would rollout 25,000 antennas per year. The company, which started with an initial investment of Rs 7 crore will go up to Rs 50 crore in the next two- three years after the expansion, he added.

http://www.business-standard.com/common/storypage_c.php?leftnm=11&bKeyFlag=IN&autono=6522

Does anyone know where this Vallaripatti is?

Related news......

Madurai, Oct 5: TVS Interconnect Systems Limited, part of the TVS Group which offers optimised solutions to the telecom and enterprise-networking segment, today inaugurated their manufacturing plant for Cellular base station Antennas for GSM/CDMA and UMTS requirements in technical collaboration with Argus Technologies, Australia, one of the leading antennae manufacturers in the world.


With technical support from the collaborator, the plant when fully-operational in a year's time, will roll out 25,000 antennas per annum.


It is a state-of-the-art plant to manufacture the entire range of Cellular Base Station Antennas supporting the GSM, CDMA and UMTS requirements. The plant is complete with anechoic chambers and outdoor test ranges; the later being established at Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai. This will facilitate carrying out the far field measurements of antennas.


TVS ICS now will be able to address operators and equipment manufacturer's requirement of a shorter delivery time and cost reduction. An added advantage will be up gradation, repair and maintenance of existing antennas at economical rates.


Speaking on the occasion, T K Basu, president, TVS Interconnect Systems, said "The company is already marketing RF Coaxial cables, cable accessories and connectors to the present cellular operators. The unexplored area of manufacturing Cellular Base Station Antennas in India is a logical extension of existing telecom business of the company. This venture along with project and installation services would position TVS Interconnect Systems Ltd as a Total Solution Provider (TOSO) for the out-door segment of the Base Station".


He added that the company would enhance its investments in this venture and would achieve number one status in marketing of antennas in our country, within next three years. This is India's first cellular antennae manufacturing plant.

Basu said TVS Interconnect has Initially invested Rs. seven crore and this is expected to go up to Rs. 30 - 50 crore in the next three years. The advantages of this new facilityare -- cost of antennae will be lower; ready stock for buyers brings down the delivery period; TVS Interconnect also looks at repair, service & warranty.

Speaking on the occasion, John Bonello, managing director, Argus Technologies, Australia said, the technical expertise of Argus coupled with marketing and manufacturing capabilities of TVS would form a formidable combination in Indian market and this combine will soon become numero uno in the field of Antennas in the country.


http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID=%7BC93C6578-38D7-41EB-93D4-7F96D981A14D%7D&CATEGORYNAME=CHN

Does anyone know where this Vallaripatti is?

Its on the Madurai-Melur road. This is where the TVS Cherry Ltd is also located.

Medium sized players among the technology and non-voice business process outsourcing (BPO) sectors are pushing their fresh investments to second tier locations across India, to escape high real estate and attrition costs in the metros.
SMEs (small and medium enterprises) prefer to be based out of smaller towns that are educational hubs as compared to metros, said industry observers. Business consultancy firms are actively studying non-metro locations in India where SME investments will be feasible.

Principal at offshore advisory company Tholons Vinu B Kartha told FE, “We are currently discussing with a couple of SME clients on how we could help them move to a second tier location. While big players keep their core leadership and control centres in metros, SMEs are willing to put their entire delivery facility, along with control centres outside the city when they can.”

He adds that fresh investments from medium sized companies will increasingly land in non-metro locations in the future. Centres such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Mysore, Madurai, Pondicherry, Coimbatore, Mangalore, Vijaywada are hotting up as investment locations in for SMEs in southern India.

According to BS Murthy of recruitment firm Human capital, companies not requiring very large team sizes will invest into non-metros, where real estate costs are almost 30% of the land prices in the metros.

“Compared to cities, entry level salaries in non-metros are lower by a few thousands, and the talent pool is available there. However, for middle level management, one may have to pay them a premium to hire them for a non-metro location which is away from the business eco system,” he said.

http://www.financialexpress.com/fe_full_story.php?content_id=142583

Its on the Madurai-Melur road. This is where the TVS Cherry Ltd is also located.

Thank you Madurai Veeran. Nice to see some improvements on the Telecommunication side in Madurai. As per some reports more than an year ago, Motorola also was planning to set up some lab kind of a facility near TCE. Hope that also gets started in the near future.

watch this video. this give the arial view of madurai and american college
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLcOg6A0yi8

Referring to CPI state secretary D Pandian’s charge that Madurai had been neglected for long industrially, the Chief Minister listed out the infrastructure creat ed in Madurai city during the DMK rule.

After the inauguration of Tidel I in Chennai, there were only talks about Tidel park in Tier II cities. As announced in the budget, he said, work on Tidel II - Chennai and IT Park in Coimbatore would begin shortly, followed by Tidel Parks in Madurai and Tiruchy. ‘‘Don’t think I am making a new announcement. It is all there in budget,’’ he said.

Courtesy, The New Indian Express.

Related news in Tamil Daily Dinamani

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DND20061007010136&Title=Districts+Page&lTitle=U%F4YhPeLs&Topic=0

Thank you Madurai Veeran. Nice to see some improvements on the Telecommunication side in Madurai. As per some reports more than an year ago, Motorola also was planning to set up some lab kind of a facility near TCE. Hope that also gets started in the near future.

You are right Madurai. Motorola had signed an MoU some months back with TCE to setup a wireless testing facility at the TCE campus. I hope TVS ICS and Motorola's initiative helps to draw in other companies into Madurai.

Real estate developer DLF is investing Rs 10,000 crore in Tamil Nadu. The projects include a six-million sq ft IT park coming up over a 42-acre plot in Chennai, a shopping mall in the heart of the city and a residential township spread over 100 acres on the IT Corridor (OMR).

In addition, DLF has offered to participate in infrastructure projects to be initiated in the state by the government. The offer includes participating in creating infrastructure facilities in Chennai airport, besides developing ring-roads around Tier-II cities like Coimbatore, Madurai and Tiruchi. Rajeev Singh, vice-chairman, DLF, called on Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi on Sunday morning.

State electricity minister Arcot N Veerasamy and PWD minister Duraimurugan were also present. “We are committed to invest Rs 10,000 crore or well over $2bn in various real estate and infrastructure projects in Tamil Nadu,” official sources in DLF told ET. Construction activity for DLF’s first project in Tamil Nadu — a six- million sq ft IT park at Manapakkam in Chennai, the largest IT park in the state — is already under way.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2122951.cms

MADURAI: The Australian Government will ask companies in that country to look at lesser-known places such as Madurai for tie-ups instead of bigger cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai, Australian High Commissioner to India John McCarthy said on Monday.

Addressing reporters after meeting members of the Confederation of Indian Industry here, Mr. McCarthy saw an immense scope for growth in bilateral trade. The Australian firms would be asked to consider Madurai, Coimbatore, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, taking into consideration the lack of competition and availability of land and labour.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/10/stories/2006101002710500.htm

Good to see that Australia is looking into Tier II cities including Madurai.

Related news http://www.dinamalar.com/2006oct10/general_tn28.asp

Thanks Madurai veeran. Hope Motorola starts their operations soon in Madurai. With some of the MNCs coming up, it should give a good perception about Madurai for other MNCs who might be considering the city for their own operations.

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DND20061009221822&Title=Districts+Page&lTitle=U%F4YhPeLs&Topic=0

Staff Reporter

To tap benefits derived from Information Technology Park

The university will go for a memorandum of understanding with the IT Park: VC
Steps will be taken to find job opportunities for students
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


MADURAI : The Madurai Kamaraj University has retained 17 acres of land belonging to it after deciding to give 200 acres for the proposed Information Technology Park to be developed by the State Government.

On this 17-acre site, the university is planning to construct a centre for University-Industry Collaboration and Research so as to tap the benefits that are to be derived from the `IT Park.'

The Vice-Chancellor, P. Maruthamuthu, told The Hindu on Wednesday that the university would go for a MoU collectively with the Government's IT Park to benefit both students and faculty.

He said that the university was keen on utilising the IT facilities and also taking steps particularly for finding job opportunities for its students in the IT Park. He said that the Syndicate, at its meeting held on October 9, passed a resolution to hand over the land sought by the Government. The university is looking at the possibility of opening a distance education study centre in Washington.According to university authorities, the Vice-Chancellor is likely to visit the US to assess the feasibility and have a meeting with persons who want to be associated with it.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/12/stories/2006101218790300.htm

TN CM's letter to Praful Patel for upgrading Madurai airport and to fly international flights gradually. He wanted Madurai airport upgradation as part of the 11th five year plan along with upgradation of Coimbatore and Trichy airports.

He also request Lalu for running Bullet trains between Chennai-Madurai and Chennai-Coimbatore.

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DNH20061015140526&Title=Headlines+Page&lTitle=%D8d%A1V+%F9Nn%A7Ls&Topic=0

Engineering colleges in the State want the Government to create four regional technical universities, in case the present structure, led by Anna University, is to be changed, for better academic administration.

When it came to power, the DMK Government announced its intention to create three technical universities, one each in Chennai, Tiruchi and Coimbatore. At present, Anna University in Chennai has academic control over all the 250 affiliated colleges, and a dozen constituent, government and aided institutions.

Heads of engineering colleges who have been seeking further changes in the way the affiliated institutions are administered discussed the issue here on Wednesday last.

According to Jeppiaar, president, Consortium of Arts, Science and Professional Colleges in Tamil Nadu, and treasurer R.S. Munirathinam, many members felt the need for creating four technical universities each in Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchi and Madurai.

Their argument for the fourth centre was that colleges in southern parts also required closer monitoring and mentorship by a local university.

`Not much gains'

"We were taken out of the regional universities and brought under Anna University in 2001. We now feel we have not gained much... All we do is to pay the affiliation and recognition fees every year. Perhaps, through four new universities, each competing with the other academically, the colleges may see some gains," Mr. Jeppiaar said.

Enquiries show that the process to create the new universities is going on. During a recent university Syndicate meeting, some members raised the issue of changing the present structure.

Too premature to decide

Government representatives told them that it was too premature to take such a decision (of creating four regional universities). However, the process of enacting suitable legislation for the new universities is on.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/16/stories/2006101616490800.htm

TN CM's letter to Praful Patel for upgrading Madurai airport and to fly international flights gradually. He wanted Madurai airport upgradation as part of the 11th five year plan along with upgradation of Coimbatore and Trichy airports.

He also request Lalu for running Bullet trains between Chennai-Madurai and Chennai-Coimbatore.

http://www.dinamani.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=DNH20061015140526&Title=Headlines+Page&lTitle=%D8d%A1V+%F9Nn%A7Ls&Topic=0

Im not sure how much this letter could help, but still im happy that he has talked about upgradation of Madurai airport and operating of international flights. What happened to the Deccan lanka's proposal to start flights connecting south indian cities (incl Madurai) to Colombo?.

Coming to the letter to Lallu ji, there are far more pressing issues like expediting doubling of Madurai - Dindigul section and electrification of Madurai - villupuram section. Im not sure how a bullet train can be run when the route utilisation on Chennai - Madurai section is 160% and also without electrification.

Madurai hospital ties up with US body
Search for More News

Madurai, Oct 16: The US-based Smile Train, a leading non-profitable organisation committed to eradicating cleft lip/palate problem, has recognised the Meenakshi Mission Hospital and Research Centre (MMHRC) here as a centre of excellence and donated Rs 2 crore.

The amount will be used for setting up a regional Smile Train centre at MMHRC to train plastic surgeons and paramedical staff and providing facilities for round-the-clock surgeries as per American standards, MMHRC chairman N Sethuraman told reporters here today.

Sethuraman said a majority of children with cleft lip were born in poor families and the defect could be set right by surgery.

Facilities at MMHRC include a special operation theatre, post-operative ward, a Smile Train Library and an info-tech centre, video conferencing and research facilities, an international training centre and a mobile Smile Train van and speech therapy. The services would be as per ISO 9001:2000 standards.

It would be manned by medical and para-medical professionals to meet the comprehensive requirement of persons suffering from cleft lip/palate with the capacity to provide surgeries for 1,000 beneficiaries a year, he said.

The centre would provide counselling, free accommodation, medicines, food, speech therapy, and awareness programme at the grass root level on prevention and after care. It would also provide training for surgeons from all over the world.

The Smile Van was launched at a simple function today.

The MMHRC in partnership with Smile Train had already provided free surgeries to 2,467 children and the new centre would help it to expand its services. (Agencies)

http://www.chennaionline.com/colnews/newsitem.asp?NEWSID=%7B369574F6-3C51-4915-9AE0-A0CB722B932E%7D&CATEGORYNAME=Health

Engineering colleges in the State want the Government to create four regional technical universities, in case the present structure, led by Anna University, is to be changed, for better academic administration.

..................
According to Jeppiaar, president, Consortium of Arts, Science and Professional Colleges in Tamil Nadu, and treasurer R.S. Munirathinam, many members felt the need for creating four technical universities each in Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchi and Madurai.

Their argument for the fourth centre was that colleges in southern parts also required closer monitoring and mentorship by a local university.

.............
Too premature to decide

Government representatives told them that it was too premature to take such a decision (of creating four regional universities). However, the process of enacting suitable legislation for the new universities is on.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/16/stories/2006101616490800.htm

This is a very good move. I am happy that this issue has been raised. The government's decision to decentralise the Anna University with two branches only at Trichy and Coimbatore is deplorable. Successive governments have been undermining the South and I hope this is rectified in the early stages itself.

Im not sure how much this letter could help, but still im happy that he has talked about upgradation of Madurai airport and operating of international flights. What happened to the Deccan lanka's proposal to start flights connecting south indian cities (incl Madurai) to Colombo?.

Coming to the letter to Lallu ji, there are far more pressing issues like expediting doubling of Madurai - Dindigul section and electrification of Madurai - villupuram section. Im not sure how a bullet train can be run when the route utilisation on Chennai - Madurai section is 160% and also without electrification.

Air Deccan's (Deccan Lanka) plans are like this sometimes. I am not against to this airlines. But, they are used to such announcements but in reality it could happen after some months. Also, they are known to remove services without proper announcements. Hope they come up with some concrete plans. May be they have a delay in getting the permission.

On TN CM's letter, the bullet train demand will be just another demand which is not going to happen in the near future. It's not the Chennai-Madurai section but the Dindigul-Madurai section which is said to be utilised 160% or more. There are other bottleneck sections like Trichy-Vridhachalam etc., too. It would have been better if TN CM demanded for doubling this entire line and for more Gauge Conversion and electrification projects besides some much needed trains.

Byas Anand
[ 17 Oct, 2006 0229hrs ISTTIMES NEWS NETWORK ]


NEW DELHI: The growing violence in Sri Lanka has forced Capt GR Gopinath to ground plans to start a low-cost airline in the island nation.

"It's too much of a risk. We were to start operations of Deccan Lanka this month, but the growing violence there has forced us to temporarily put the plan on hold," said Gopinath. "We'll now wait till the situation improves."

Deccan Lanka, in which Deccan Aviation holds a minority 48% stake, was among the three private airlines to have been approved by Sri Lankan government to operate international flights. Set up on the lines of Air Deccan, Deccan Lanka has been designated as an international airline to operate flights to points in India, besides Dubai, Singapore and Bangkok.

Initially, Deccan Lanka planned to operate flights from Colombo to Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Trichy, Madurai and Coimbatore. "It doesn't make sense starting operations now because of the violence there. Not only is there a risk on placing aircraft, but this violence has also taken a toll on the tourism industry. Once this violence abates, we will start operations," he said.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2181221.cms

------------------------------------------
Well, they have a legitimate reason I guess.

Karunanidhi's letter is just for the press and Government filings. Later if someone brings that project, he would come out and say, I have talked about this and sent a letter in the year 1806. So that he or DMK can claim credit for this project when this comes to reality in the ther 2050. He would never ask Lalu to finish up the doubling of Madurai-Dindigul bcoz he cannot credit it into his or DMKs account. If you ask him now, he would say, I am thinking about future projects for Tamilnadu and so he requested bullet train.

Im not sure how much this letter could help, but still im happy that he has talked about upgradation of Madurai airport and operating of international flights. What happened to the Deccan lanka's proposal to start flights connecting south indian cities (incl Madurai) to Colombo?.

Coming to the letter to Lallu ji, there are far more pressing issues like expediting doubling of Madurai - Dindigul section and electrification of Madurai - villupuram section. Im not sure how a bullet train can be run when the route utilisation on Chennai - Madurai section is 160% and also without electrification.

Earlier this month, DLF had announced that it would be setting up multi-product SEZs at Tamil Nadu in public private partnership. Terambalur and Nanguneri have been earmarked for these projects.

The company will also be building ring roads in Madurai, Coimbatore and Kochi. Its other projects in the state include the development of residential space in Chennai and Madurai. The total acreage of the residential project is 100 acres. DLF will also be developing an IT park on a 42 acre plot in Chennai with a total built up area of six million square feet.

http://www.business-standard.com/compindustry/storypage.php?leftnm=lmnu1&subLeft=1&autono=262173&tab=r

THE $1-billion general purpose fund of Daewoo Securities (Europe )is likely to invest $18 million into the Chennai-based GV Films. The cash will flow into the latter's mixed use asset building venture, GV Studio City, across 23 locations in Tamil Nadu. The project, which will entail investments of nearly Rs 700-800 crore when completed, is key to GV's plans to diversify outside film led entertainment business.

GV Studio City will be a combination of multiplex, a star hotel and a shopping mall. Each of these projects will include four screens, a 60-90 room hotel and a shopping arcade featuring stores like Chennai Silks and Saravana Bhavan. GV has already acquired properties in Madurai, Tanjavur and is close to inking a deal in Vellore. The company is evaluating proposals in other centres like Salem, Trichy and Coimbatore. The studio city venture is expected to cover about seven locations in the first phase.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2174089.cms

Does any one have concrete information about the DLF's plans such as ring road and residential space in Madurai. Also regarding the GV films projects for Madurai such as multiplex, star hotel and shopping arcade. Since the properties have already been acquired for the JV films Studio city in Madurai, there must be more concrete info regarding it. Please share it with us incase you know.

Does any one have concrete information about the DLF's plans such as ring road and residential space in Madurai. Also regarding the GV films projects for Madurai such as multiplex, star hotel and shopping arcade. Since the properties have already been acquired for the JV films Studio city in Madurai, there must be more concrete info regarding it. Please share it with us incase you know.

If I remember correctly, GV group bought the Thangam Theater complex for their multiplex. I read it in some news reports about six months or so before.

If I remember correctly, GV group bought the Thangam Theater complex for their multiplex. I read it in some news reports about six months or so before.

Multiplex at that place would not be a good idea. Such a congested area will not be suitable to bring more shoppers.

According to him, Tamil Nadu is the only state in the country to consciously develop tier two cities so that IT companies can set up their base there. The state is promoting Madurai, Coimbatore and Trichi for this purpose. "An IT park on the lines of Tidel Park in Chennai will be built in Coimbatore. The foundation stone will be laid soon there. Similarly the government will set up Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) in Tirunelvelli and Salem in Tamil Nadu.

http://www.domain-b.com/companies/companies_m/mindtree/20061019_branches.html

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Is TN the only state promoting Tier II cities? I thought some other states have already taken the lead in establishing Tier II cities like Mangalore, Mysore, Pune etc.,
There is no word about the foundation stone work or anything like that for the Madurai IT/Tidel Park. Looks like the same old story is repeating.

Yeah many states have taken the lead on developing tier II cities like gujarat... Karnataka and Maharashtra are trying to do the same.

DLF has conveyed their interest & readiness to do all those projects in T Nadu when they met the CM. It does not mean that they are getting the jobs. There will be tenders and the H1 (Highest) + T1 (Technically best) bidder will be given the job. Perambalur SEZ tender has alraedy been released.

YEah and the interested parties seem pretty good -DLF and a singapore company that built a massive SEZ ~70000 acres in China. Both have expressed interest in building sezs in TN. Hope they bid and do as good a job like Mahindra Gesco.

YEah and the interested parties seem pretty good -DLF and a singapore company that built a massive SEZ ~70000 acres in China. Both have expressed interest in building sezs in TN. Hope they bid and do as good a job like Mahindra Gesco.


you forgot to mention Reliance

ADAG (Reliance) was more interested in the ennore SEZ if I am right

Im a bit worried that the TN government should request for a SEZ at Madurai on either of the 2 lands identified for IT parks before the central government puts some kind of restriction or limit on the no.of SEZ's for the country. SEZ's could only be the way ahead in attracting investments and developing tier II cities like Madurai, Coimbatore and Trichy.

Already the SEZ plan has gone into various controversies and has also been opposed by coalition partners like the communist party at the center. The TN government should make sure Madurai gets what it deserves.

When DLF shows interest in taking up the 2nd phase of the ring road project why on earth is the project getting delayed so long. The 1st phase was completed in 2001. The government should consider the development of south TN and put all the projects on fast track.

I would like to list the various infrastructure projects that would require the immediate attention for development of Madurai in particular and south TN on the whole :

1. The runway at the Madurai airport has to be extended to 9000 feets from present 7500 feets which could permit wide bodied aircafts to land here. AAI has to upgrade Madurai airport to international status or atleast to customs airport.

2. The NH's branching out of Madurai which are in various stages for fourlaning process have to be expedited so that they meet the deadline.

3. The Southern Railways must expedite the doubling of the Madurai dindigul section and electrification of Madurai villupuram section.

4. The STPI sub center at Madurai has to enhance its capacity of expanding to upto 15 Mbps from the current 6 Mbps.

There has been some reports about linking many of the roads between Melur Road and Samayanallur. Also, Samayanallur-Thoppur will have a NH Bypass. Hope these projects get completed in the earliest possible time without controversies and delays.

As far as industries are concerned, Madurai and South continue to get neglected. There is no improvement on the IT Parks apart from boasting about Madurai as Tier II city in every event by the administration. SIPCOT has been announced in the State Budget, but no news after that. Satellite town project also is in the dark. The protest by other parties was only for Chennai and I don't know why the Madurai project has been dumped also.

Im a bit worried that the TN government should request for a SEZ at Madurai on either of the 2 lands identified for IT parks before the central government puts some kind of restriction or limit on the no.of SEZ's for the country. SEZ's could only be the way ahead in attracting investments and developing tier II cities like Madurai, Coimbatore and Trichy.

Already the SEZ plan has gone into various controversies and has also been opposed by coalition partners like the communist party at the center. The TN government should make sure Madurai gets what it deserves.

When DLF shows interest in taking up the 2nd phase of the ring road project why on earth is the project getting delayed so long. The 1st phase was completed in 2001.

Why is the TN government delaying the process of getting SEZ status on the 2 lands proposed for IT parks in Madurai?. Does it involve any procedure before the government can actually propose a location for obtaining SEZ status?. Should there be enough interest expressed by IT companies before actually obtaning SEZ status?. I feel there is lots of talking by Maran about IT parks in tier II cities in TN but actually nothing happening in substance.

An ambitious programme to develop infrastructure for the textiles sector, aimed at attracting investment of Rs. 3,000 crore, is under way in the State. The Scheme of Integrated Textile Parks (SITP) envisages setting up of two apparel parks for exports, three hi-tech weaving parks, five hi-tech parks for infrastructure development and two processing parks.

Improvement of infrastructure in the traditional textile centres of Kancheepuram and Radhapuram is also part of the programme. It is estimated that the parks will provide direct employment to about 35,000 people, and when fully operational, they are likely to generate a turnover of Rs. 7,000 crore per annum. A senior official of the Textiles department says that the proposed parks will be fully functional in a couple of years.

Formulated in October 2005, the SITP is a combination of two old schemes — Apparel Parks for Export Scheme (APES) and Textile Centre Infrastructure Development Scheme. One major difference between the previous schemes and the SITP is that in the case of the latter, it is the Centre that provides the grant, 40 per cent of the project cost or Rs. 40 crore, with the States not required to contribute anything. The balance will come from entrepreneurs.

One apparel park has been established at Tirupur with 60 units, and another is being developed at Irungattukottai, about 40 km from Chennai. A few units have already started functioning here. Some 30 more units are planned.

The Irungattukottai park is coming up at the industrial complex of the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT), which has leased land to nearly 30 companies, as well providing facilities such as street lights, water supply and sewerage. An official of the SIPCOT said that thanks to the Centre's assistance, the land value works out to be, on an average, 25 per cent less than what it would have otherwise. He was hopeful that the park will be commissioned in a year. The proposals for the Tirupur and Irungattukottai parks were originally sanctioned under the APES.

Hi-tech parks

In addition to the above, three hi-tech parks for infrastructure development at Erode, Kumarapalayam and Chengapalli (in Erode district) have been sanctioned under the SITP, at a total cost of Rs. 230 crore.

Two more parks

The State Government has proposed two more — Madurai and Karur — to be included in the SITP during the 10th Five Year Plan period. The processing parks are proposed to be set up in Cuddalore and Perunthurai at an investment of Rs. 300 crore each. The Perunthurai park will also come up at the SIPCOT industrial complex.

The hi-tech weaving parks will come up in Kumarapalayam, Andipatti and Palladam, and the total estimated cost is about Rs 328 crore. While work is progressing on schedule in Kumarapalayam and Palladam, issues concerning the composition of management of the special purpose vehicle for Andipatti have not been sorted out, according to official sources.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/23/stories/2006102303900400.htm

MANGALORE : The Religious Endowments Ministry will take steps to provide lodging facilities for devotees from Karnataka visiting temples in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The governments of these States have agreed lease land and buildings to the State Government for the purpose.

Minister for Religious Endowments B. Nagaraj Shetty said here on Saturday that Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, during his recent visit to Kollur, had agreed to examine leasing out land and buildings to the Karnataka Government on long-term in Ganigapur, Kolhapur and Nasik where choultries (lodging facilities) would be constructed by the Karnataka Government. The government has intimated its wish to have similar facilities in Guruvayur and Sabarimala in Kerala and Madurai in Tamil Nadu.

http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=34847

MADURAI: A delegation of young entrepreneurs of the Youth Entrepreneur School (YES) of Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce and Industry is to undertake a 7-day tour of China and Hong Kong to hone entrepreneurial skills and explore the possibility of having bilateral trade between Chinese cities and Madurai.

Addressing a press conference here recently, S. Rethinavelu, president of the chamber, said the tour would be fourth of its kind after delegations of senior members visited Sri Lanka, Maldives, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Mauritius, South Africa and Dubai on different occasions since 1999.

The 34-member team would visit the 100th Canton Fair at Guangzhou in China and Asia's largest construction fair in Hong Kong, besides holding trade talks with young entrepreneurs from Chinese cities on import of products suitable for Tamil Nadu.

The tour, he was confident, would be beneficial to all types of industries in Madurai and southern districts. The delegation, Mr. Rethinavelu said, comprised mostly of first generation entrepreneurs.

The chairman of YES, V. Neethi Mohan, who will lead the delegation, said the objective of the trip was to make young entrepreneurs aware of international business. It would concentrate not only on import of goods but would also explore the avenues for export of Madurai products to China.

Each member would focus on his trade or industry at the fair and have individual interactions with Chinese counterparts. Mr. Neethi Mohan said that the visit assumed significance when China was emerging as India's third largest trade partner.

The YES, he said, had been training young entrepreneurs in developing a new outlook in the era of globalisation. They had realised that hard work alone would not bring success in any venture and "smart working" was also required in a changing scenario. The delegation will leave Madurai on October 23 and return on October 30.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/23/stories/2006102317150300.htm

To seek SEZ allocations in Coimbatore, Tiruchi, Madurai

Khivraj is planning to expand to tier two cities in anticipation of growth in those areas. It would send in applications for SEZ allocations in Coimbatore, Tiruchi and Madurai.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/10/24/stories/2006102401111900.htm

Air Deccan to launch direct flight between Madurai and Bangalore

Madurai, Oct 24. (PTI): Low cost carrier Air Deccan today said it will launch a direct non-stop flight between this city and Bangalore from October 30.

http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/006200610241511.htm

MADURAI: Air Deccan, on Tuesday, announced the launch of the Madurai-Bangalore flight from October 30. This will be its second service from the city.

R. Krishnaswamy, Chief of Corporate Planning, told journalists that Madurai had the potential to become an international airport soon. Air Deccan would introduce A320 service by 2007 summer from here if the development works at the airport were completed in time. Air Deccan also planned to connect Madurai with Mumbai, he said.

The Chennai-Madurai flight enjoyed good patronage, with a 90 per cent load factor. He was confident that the Bangalore service would provide a fillip to the business and leisure and tourist traffic.

The objective of the airline, he said, was to "take out the exclusivity of airline flying and make it a common mode of transport."

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/25/stories/2006102510890100.htm

The airliner has plans to connect Madurai with Mumbai and Delhi with transit points in Chennai and Bangalore. The plans would take shape after the completion of upgrading works in Madurai Airport, Krishnaswamy said adding that Airbus 320 would be engaged in the Madurai route by next April.

The airliner, would press into service a 72-seater ATR-72 aircraft on the Madurai-Bangalore sector. Air Deccan promotional fares on the Bangalore-Madurai-Bangalore sector starts at Rs 274 (plus taxes). Tickets for Rs 6 (plus taxes) are also available till offer lasts.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20061025020600&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

R. Krishnaswamy, Chief of Corporate Planning, told journalists that Madurai had the potential to become an international airport soon. Air Deccan would introduce A320 service by 2007 summer from here if the development works at the airport were completed in time. Air Deccan also planned to connect Madurai with Mumbai, he said.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/25/stories/2006102510890100.htm

I am not sure why he says Air Deccan cannot operate A320 flights from Madurai until development works are completed at the airport, while Indian operates A320 flight from Madurai to Mumbai via Chennai.

I am not sure why he says Air Deccan cannot operate A320 flights from Madurai until development works are completed at the airport, while Indian operates A320 flight from Madurai to Mumbai via Chennai.

Indian is working with fewer seat capaticity compared its original capacity of the flight. Only after the extension of the runway they could introduce the full capacity. As Indian will head to Mumbai, it will get the full number at Chennai.
May be AD can also try that, but in anycase their plan to start after the expansion plan sounds reasonable.
Their plan to introduce Madurai-Mumbai flight will be good. There are couple of millions of people from southern TN and Kerala working in Middle East will be benefited with this connection.

Im a bit worried that the TN government should request for a SEZ at Madurai on either of the 2 lands identified for IT parks before the central government puts some kind of restriction or limit on the no.of SEZ's for the country. SEZ's could only be the way ahead in attracting investments and developing tier II cities like Madurai, Coimbatore and Trichy.

Already the SEZ plan has gone into various controversies and has also been opposed by coalition partners like the communist party at the center. The TN government should make sure Madurai gets what it deserves.

When DLF shows interest in taking up the 2nd phase of the ring road project why on earth is the project getting delayed so long. The 1st phase was completed in 2001. The government should consider the development of south TN and put all the projects on fast track.

I would like to list the various infrastructure projects that would require the immediate attention for development of Madurai in particular and south TN on the whole :

1. The runway at the Madurai airport has to be extended to 9000 feets from present 7500 feets which could permit wide bodied aircafts to land here. AAI has to upgrade Madurai airport to international status or atleast to customs airport.

2. The NH's branching out of Madurai which are in various stages for fourlaning process have to be expedited so that they meet the deadline.

3. The Southern Railways must expedite the doubling of the Madurai dindigul section and electrification of Madurai villupuram section.

4. The STPI sub center at Madurai has to enhance its capacity of expanding to upto 15 Mbps from the current 6 Mbps.


The development generally takes place based on the present needs and the future demand. We have already processed 2 applications for IT SEZs for Madurai in the private sector. But the developers are reluctant since they are not sure of marketing the entire space. 25 acres of land means 32.67 lakhs sft (FSI 3 as per IT park norms). Can anybody invest and wait for the customers to come? Campus Development is another idea (each company is allotted a few acres as in Siruseri) but the returns are very low. Unless Madurai wakes up with the development of support infrastructure, it will be very difficult to woo the developers and IT companies. Govt IT parks will take longer time due to the procedures. Private investment is the ticket for fast paced development.

As Madurai Veeran suggested, the airport, roads, STPI info backbone infra should be developed apart from quality housing, schools, shopping malls and entertainment centres. The city is very congested and so the outskirts have to be developed. Trichy Road, Thirumangalam Road, Tuticorin Road and Dindigul Road have to be developed to match the future developments, that are going to happen at these stretches. The Ring Road will add value to those areas nearby.

The development generally takes place based on the present needs and the future demand. Unless Madurai wakes up with the development of support infrastructure, it will be very difficult to woo the developers and IT companies.

As Madurai Veeran suggested, the airport, roads, STPI info backbone infra should be developed apart from quality housing, schools, shopping malls and entertainment centres. The city is very congested and so the outskirts have to be developed. Trichy Road, Thirumangalam Road, Tuticorin Road and Dindigul Road have to be developed to match the future developments, that are going to happen at these stretches. The Ring Road will add value to those areas nearby.

I feel government has to do lot more. They have to start an initiative then there would be private players ready to involve. All the infrastructure projects like roads, airport and STPI backbone has to be developed by the government. Once the government starts showing real concern to develop the city to the needs of IT companies then you would find private players coming in to join the development process and setup shops here. Other than the lack of interest on the part of the government and lack of infrastructure there is nothing which Madurai region lacks. They could say there is lack of manpower, but then why do IT companies recruit in the thousands from south TN. If the government expedites the process of getting SEZ status to lands identified for IT parks that would by itself be a great help to attract IT players to the city. What happened to the satellite town planed for madurai on 1000 acres of land by the state government?. There has been lots of promises and lots of talkings but nothing happening in reality. The government should realise that the development of Madurai could trigger the development of south TN.

Madurai being a very old city founded many hundreds of years before has been the reason for the crowded center area around the the temple. But the city has seen a lot of developments at the periphery over the years. The local administration has done well to decongest the city by moving many establishments to the outer areas. As pointed by CII the government could consider the Madurai - Trichy and Madurai - Virudhunagar stretch for knowledge industries like IT and Madurai - tuticorin stretch for other heavy industries.

In order to bring entertainment, shopping and services under a single window, Chennai-based GV Films Ltd (GVFL) plans to build 46 GV 'Studio Cities' involving an expenditure of Rs 1,800-crore.

The project is to be completed in two phases :

In the first phase, the company aims to build 23 world-class theatres along with three-star hotels and shopping malls. The project is expected to cost Rs 900 crore and will be completed in the next 18 months. The company plans to confine itself to Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh in the first phase. It has planned projects in cities like Chennai, Guntur, Madurai, Kochi and Mysore among others.

The second phase would also involve an investment of about Rs 900 crore in 23 projects. In this phase, the company would move to the west starting with Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur. The second phase of the plant would begin within the next one year.

About half of the capital expenditure is proposed to be met through the equity route while 30 per cent and 20 per cent will be met through debt and internal accruals respectively.

The company has also taken permission for raising $180 million through GDR/FCCB.

“A GV Studio City includes multiplexes, theme hotels and shopping malls. We wanted to build shopping malls cum multiplexes instead of only multiplexes,” A Venkatramani, director, G V Films said.

http://www.business-standard.com/iceworld/storypage.php?leftnm=8&subLeft=4&chklogin=N&autono=262930&tab=r

In the first phase, the company aims to build 23 world-class theatres along with three-star hotels and shopping malls.
The project is expected to cost Rs 900 crore and will be completed in the next 18 months. The company plans to confine itself to Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh in the first phase. It has planned projects in cities like Chennai, Guntur, Madurai, Kochi and Mysore among others.

Finally after a long wait GV films comes out with a time frame of 18 months for establishing GV Studio City at Madurai. A GV Studio City includes a multiplex, 3 star hotel and a shopping mall. Its a great news that Madurai has been selected for developing the GV Studio City in the first phase.

The Aitken Spence Hotel Chain with nine hotels in Sri Lanka and four in Maldives have achieved the prestigious ISO 22000 and HACCP Certification for three of their hotels – Heritage Kandalama, Earl’s Regency Kandy and The Tea Factory Nuwara Eliya.

Malin Hapugoda, Managing Director, Aitken Spence Hotels said they have signed management contracts to put up three hotels in India – one in New Delhi, one in Madurai and the other a joint venture partnership in Kerala and the chain is determined to carry this excellent work on safety food and environment to the Hotels in India once they are built.

http://www.asiantribune.com/index.php?q=node/2839

Breaking news: The central govt grants permission to TN Govt for helicopter service from Madurai to other tourists centres in southern districts.

Breaking news: The central govt grants permission to TN Govt for helicopter service from Madurai to other tourists centres in southern districts.

Good initiative to promote the tourism industry in Madurai and south TN. Anniyan do you have more info regarding the tourist places which would be connected by the helicopter service. Will the service be operated from Madurai airport?. Do you have any link to this news?.

Madurai Mayor promises to improve the civic amenities in the city and immediately gets into action

G. Thenmozhi, the new Mayor of Madurai ordered the officials to appoint a technical consultant to prepare an estimate at a cost of Rs. 156 crore to renovate all the 11 drainage channels and to provide storm water drainage to all streets. Another order she signed was to appoint a technical consultant for producing manure from solid waste at a cost of Rs. 38 crore.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/29/stories/2006102911600100.htm

Good initiative to promote the tourism industry in Madurai and south TN. Anniyan do you have more info regarding the tourist places which would be connected by the helicopter service. Will the service be operated from Madurai airport?. Do you have any link to this news?.

Probably they will operate helicopter service to pilgrimage places like palani, rameswaram, kanyakumari,thiruchendur and tourist places like kodaikanal, thekadi and kutralam.

Pawans Hans (http://164.100.52.177/index.asp) will be operating the service. State Govt will fix the rates , passenger facilities etc.

This service has come to Madurai due to the effort by Mohan M.P.

Probably they will operate helicopter service to pilgrimage places like palani, rameswaram, kanyakumari,thiruchendur and tourist places like kodaikanal, thekadi and kutralam.

Pawans Hans (http://164.100.52.177/index.asp) will be operating the service, they are India's largest helicopter operator. State Govt will fix the rates , passenger facilities etc.

This service has come to Madurai due to the effort by Mohan M.P.

Thanx anniyan for the information. Mohan M.P deserves great accolade for all his works related to the development of Madurai. This helicopter service would immensely benefit the international tourists and the affluent people to easily visit pilgrimage and tourist places in south TN.

The much awaited Information Technology Parks in Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchi, Salem, Tirunelveli and Krishnagiri, conceptualised by the State Government showcasing tier-II cities as ideal IT destinations, may be only months away.

Accompanied by the Secretary, Department of Information Technology, S. Chandramouli and the Managing Director of Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT), S. Uma Shankar, the Collectors of the districts are camping in Bangalore to hard sell the potential of their respective regions to IT majors and investors, on the sidelines of the launch of `bangaloreIT.in 2006', and the IT Road Show.

On Monday, the Collectors are scheduled to interact with the IT majors and address the media there on the advantages the IT industries will enjoy in tier-II cities.

They will present details on the facilities they have created for establishing facilities the IT industries expect: built-up space and land for campus style development, infrastructure and human resource potential.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/30/stories/2006103013820700.htm

Accompanied by the Secretary, Department of Information Technology, S. Chandramouli and the Managing Director of Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT), S. Uma Shankar, the Collectors of the districts are camping in Bangalore to hard sell the potential of their respective regions to IT majors and investors, on the sidelines of the launch of `bangaloreIT.in 2006', and the IT Road Show.

On Monday, the Collectors are scheduled to interact with the IT majors and address the media there on the advantages the IT industries will enjoy in tier-II cities.

They will present details on the facilities they have created for establishing facilities the IT industries expect: built-up space and land for campus style development, infrastructure and human resource potential.

Thats a good initiative, sending Collectors of the respective districts along with TN IT secretary and ELCOT MD. This would be a good opportunity to showcase the advantages in offer at Tier II cities. Hope they attract some IT companies to Madurai.

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to spread the growth of the IT industry by promoting six tier-2 cities to attract investments in the knowledge sector.

In a bid to ensure Chennai does not go the Bangalore way, the Tamil Nadu government Monday said it would set up IT parks in Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchy, Salem, Tirunelveli and Hosur.

"We have proposed two types of IT parks in each of these cities - a tower type IT park and a campus type one. The tower type will be built on the lines of the Tidel Park in Chennai," Tamil Nadu IT secretary C. Chandramouli told reporters at the Bangalore IT.in event here.

The government proposes to convert the six IT parks into special economic zones (SEZs) in a phased manner. Large IT firms from India and abroad have applied for land/built-up space in the parks.

With road, rail and air connectivity, quality power supply and telecom infrastructure, the tier-2 cities are being developed to provide an eco-system for the growth of the IT industry in the state.

http://www.teluguportal.net/modules/news/article.php?storyid=19572

Tourism related Infrastructure getting a facelift at a cost of Rs. 5 crore in MDU

Infrastructure was being improved in Madurai, Kanyakumari, Thanjavur, Vellore and Chettinad. Central aid was being used for this and an amount of upto Rs. 5 crore would be spent in each of the places.

Rope car project for Kodaikanal at an estimate of Rs.13.97 Crore

A rope car project would be taken up at Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal, Kanyakumari and Yercaud. The Rs.1518.69 lakh Udhagamandalam project would have a Central aid of Rs.397 lakh. The estimate for the Kodaikanal project was Rs.1396.55 lakh and the Central aid component was Rs.363 lakh. The Kanyakumari project would be taken up by the Tourism Corporation.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/31/stories/2006103106410500.htm

Air Deccan's Madurai - Bangalore Flight

One more service was added to the Madurai airport on Monday.

The Air Deccan's Madurai-Bangalore flight took off with a promise of beckoning more operators and services to the Temple City.

Upgrading the airport and providing more amenities will attract bigger aircraft and international services to Madurai.

This is the fond hope of people of southern districts who recently witnessed the revival of the Tuticorin airport with the introduction of an Air Deccan service to Chennai.

The Madurai-Bangalore flight will be operated to the following timings:

Till November 1:

DN 105 Bangalore departure 1 p.m. Madurai arrival 2.30 p.m.

DN 106 Madurai departure 2.45 p.m. Bangalore arrival 4.15 p.m.

From November 2:

DN 105 Bangalore departure 5.15 p.m. Madurai arrival 6.45 p.m.

DN 106 Madurai departure 7 p.m. Bangalore arrival 8.30 p.m.

http://www.hindu.com/2006/11/01/stories/2006110101960200.htm

Ellis Nagar road over bridge, doubling of Madurai-Dindigul stretch to be completed by March 2007 and March 2008 respectively

Divisional Railway Manager Hemant Kumar said that the work of Ellis Nagar road over bridge would be completed by March 2007 and doubling of Madurai-Dindigul work has started and is expected to be completed by March 2008.

Infrastructure and passenger amenities to be upgraded at Madurai railway station

MADURAI: The proposed remodelling of Madurai railway station with various passenger amenities including improved circulating and concourse area both at West and East entries was highlighted at the 119th meeting of the Station Consultative Committee held here on Tuesday.

Additional Divisional Manager M Suyambulingam highlighted the provision of IT based facilities such as SMS enquiry, cyber cafe, ATM with ticketing facilities, more passenger operated enquiry terminals would be provided at Madurai on both the entrances.

Budget hotel would be set up shortly by Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, additional pit line facility is being constructed to augment the maintenance capacity of more number of coaches and modernising retiring rooms, dormitories and waiting hall with AC facility would also be provided, he added.

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IET20061101005559&Page=T&Title=Southern+News+-+Tamil+Nadu&Topic=0

Ellis Nagar road over bridge, doubling of Madurai-Dindigul stretch to be completed by March 2007 and March 2008 respectively
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Whats going to happen to Periyar Bus Stand after the completion?

Whats going to happen to Periyar Bus Stand after the completion?

Ellis nagar road over bridge has got nothing to do with the bus stand. It would function as usual.

There was an ambitious project to be taken up along this ellis nagar bridge at a cost of 20 crore Rs. but i dono wat happened to that. It could be found in the following link,

http://www.thehindu.com/2005/06/14/stories/2005061414420300.htm

Is there any progress going on in the above mentioned project?.

Ellis nagar road over bridge has got nothing to do with the bus stand. It would function as usual.

There was an ambitious project to be taken up along this ellis nagar bridge at a cost of 20 crore Rs. but i dono wat happened to that. It could be found in the following link,

http://www.thehindu.com/2005/06/14/stories/2005061414420300.htm

Is there any progress going on in the above mentioned project?.

When I was in Madurai in April, 2006 the construction was still ongoing

http://i11.************/2qxoxlu.jpg

Its a nice cartoon showing the coming city center of Madurai from the above link.