THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The archaeology and public works departments are at loggerheads as the Collector has ordered the demolition of the heritage path conserved by the archaeology authorities near the Padmatheertham pond.
On Monday, the archaeology authorities stalled the move of the PWD authorities to demolish the heritage pavement to provide more parking space during Onam.
A portion of the heritage pavement was demolished. According to officials, the stretch could accommodate a minimum of 30 cars and a number of two-wheelers.
A top archaeology official said that the heritage path was laid spending Rs 1 crore. “The centre had sanctioned around Rs 88 lakh during 2002-03 to beautify the stretch on the northern side of Padmanabha Swamy Temple which links the archaeology office. The tourism department also earmarked funds for beautifying this path. The pavement was laid with the help of experts and we have been providing grants every year for maintain ing the stretch,” said the official.
However, Collector Biju Prabhakar claimed that the dispute has been resolved. “I gave clear instruction to PWD to ensure that the pavement stones are not damaged. We are undertaking a lot of beautification work in the region as part of the pond rejuvenation work. We will re-lay the pavements again. Now the pathway is dilapidated,” said Mr Biju Prabhakar.
