Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday (December 30) inaugurated a state-of-the-art glass bridge connecting the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the 133-feet Thiruvalluvar statue in Kanyakumari district.
The inaugural took place in presence of several political and cultural dignitaries, including DMK MP Kanimozhi and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. The inauguration marks the silver jubilee of the unveiling of the statue of the renowned Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar by the late Chief Minister M Karunanidhi.
Distinctive features
Located in Kanyakumari, the newly inaugurated glass bridge connects two iconic landmarks—the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the 133-foot Thiruvalluvar statue. Part of a Rs 37-crore initiative by the Tamil Nadu government, the bridge enhances the region’s tourism infrastructure, offering visitors an elevated visual and travel experience.
Tourists, who previously traveled between the two historical monuments by ferry, can now enjoy a quicker and more scenic route by walking across the newly inaugurated glass bridge.
A tourist official, speaking to news agency PTI, described the experience as “thrilling,” adding, “It provides a thrilling experience of walking above the sea.”
The glass bridge is set to become a major landmark attraction in Kanyakumari, drawing a steady influx of both domestic and international tourists.
Design and Structure
The newly inaugurated glass bridge spans 77 meters in length and 10 meters in width, and 133-feet high, featuring a bowstring-arch design that combines aesthetic appeal with durability. Its transparent glass surface offers breathtaking views of the sea, creating a unique experience for visitors as they walk above the ocean.
According to the state government, the bowstring arch design of the glass bridge has been specifically engineered to withstand the saline breeze from the sea and the region’s high humidity.
Built using advanced construction technology, the new glass bridge is designed to withstand harsh coastal conditions, including high humidity, salty sea air, and erosion, ensuring its long-term structural integrity.
The robust design aims to preserve the bridge’s durability while offering a safe and lasting experience for visitors.
Inauguration
During inauguration, a laser light show was held at the Thiruvalluvar statue.
Chief Minister MK Stalin hailed the legacy of the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar on Monday and announced that the last week of every December will be celebrated as “Thirukkural Week” to promote the teachings of his renowned work, Thirukkural.
Opposition AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami claimed that the glass bridge project in Kanyakumari was sanctioned and granted environmental clearance during his tenure as Chief Minister.
Speaking to reporters, Palaniswami stated, “Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who inaugurated the bridge, did not initiate the project. It was brought forward during the AIADMK regime when I was the Chief Minister.”
“Since Kanyakumari is a very popular tourist destination, I requested that a bridge be built to link Thiruvalluvar statue with the Vivekananda Rock Memorial,” the former Chief Minister added.
