Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay inaugurated the Periyar Arivulagam in Coimbatore, a new facility designed to promote education and science. This project is significant as it provides extensive resources for students and the public, including a large library, a planetarium, and dedicated spaces for competitive exam preparation.
Inauguration of Periyar Arivulagam
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay officially opened the Periyar Arivulagam on October 16, 2026.
The facility is located at Gandhipuram in Coimbatore city.
To reach the venue, the Chief Minister travelled in a van from the Coimbatore International Airport.
He waved to the crowds that had gathered along the route to see him.
During the event, the Chief Minister also unveiled a statue of Thanthai Periyar.
This act marked a symbolic start for the new facility.
He toured the building and interacted with government schoolchildren.
These students explained the various science installations and concepts showcased at the centre.
Mr. Vijay became the first person to sign the visitors’ book at the facility.
He wrote the message, “Know More Fear Less.”
Why this project matters
The facility serves as a hub for learning and development for various groups in the region.
It aims to support academic growth and provide resources to those preparing for their future.
- Students preparing for competitive examinations can use dedicated library spaces.
- Children have access to a specialized library designed for their needs.
- Persons with disabilities have a dedicated library section at the facility.
- Aspiring entrepreneurs can utilize the entrepreneurship centre located within the building.
- The general public can access a vast collection of 80 lakh books.
This centre is designed to be inclusive.
By providing specific sections for children, those with disabilities, and competitive exam aspirants, the government aims to cater to diverse educational needs under one roof.
How the project began
The construction of this eight-storey building began on November 6, 2024.
The foundation stone was laid during the previous DMK regime.
The structure stands on 6.98 acres of land.
This land belongs to the Coimbatore Central Prison.
It features a total built-up area of 1.98 lakh sq. ft.
The design includes multiple floors dedicated to different types of knowledge and learning experiences.
What happens next
The facility is now open for public use following the official inauguration.
Government officials may continue to oversee the operations of the centre to ensure it meets its educational goals.
- Visitors can access the 80 lakh books housed in the library.
- Students may utilize the science centres and the planetarium for learning.
- The administration will manage the ongoing maintenance of the eight-storey building.
- Future educational programs may be organized within the auditorium and science sections.
Beyond the library, the government is continuing to push for regional development.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated 89 other completed projects and laid foundation stones for 144 new projects.
Key facts at a glance
- The total cost of the Periyar Arivulagam was ₹301.71 crore.
- The building includes a 356-seat auditorium and a 90-seat planetarium.
- An astronomy viewing centre on the top floor has a seating capacity of 100.
- The Chief Minister also inaugurated 89 other completed projects worth ₹408.25 crore.
- Welfare assistance worth ₹34.72 crore was distributed to 9,343 beneficiaries.
Read the news report this explainer is based on: Tamil Nadu CM Vijay inaugurates ₹301.71-crore Periyar Arivulagam in Coimbatore.
Source: Ebenezer News Explainer Desk · Ebenezer News Explainer Desk. Published 18 Oct 2026, 01:40 am.
