Date:29/10/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/10/29/stories/2008102959530500.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Work on a block of new Secretariat Complex begins

Special Correspondent

It will be completed in 18 months

Photo: S.R.Raghunathan

On site: Principal Secretary to the PWD S.Audiseshiah briefs Public Works Minister Durai Murugan about the new secretariat complex in Chennai at a function on Monday. The Managing Director of ECC and Industries K.T.M. Ahamed Mustafa is also in the picture. —

CHENNAI: Work on the A-block of the new Secretariat Complex commenced on Monday with the performing of bhoomi pooja and ground marking procedures.

According to a senior official of the Public Works Department, the contract for the entire project costing Rs.425 crore has been entrusted to East Coast Constructions and Industries Limited. The quote of ECC and Industries was the lowest among the four contractors who had bid for the project.

The official said as per the agreement the work would be completed in 18 months. The new A-block Secretariat complex would accommodate the Legislative Assembly Hall, the Conference Hall, the Office of the Chief Minister, offices of his Cabinet colleagues, the office of the Chief Secretary and other core departments such as Public, Home, Finance, and Law. Managing Director of ECC and Industries K.T.M. Ahamed Mustafa and Principal Secretary to the PWD S. Audiseshiah took part in the function. Public Works Minister Durai Murugan also participated.