Ariyalur, Tamilnadu:  District Collector M. Ravikumar has directed the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) authorities to explore the possibility of introducing boating at the Baraneeswarar Temple at Udayarpalayam.

According to an official release, the Collector visited a number of temples in the district on Thursday and suggested various improvements in facilities.

Impressed by the water availability at the Baraneswarar Temple tank, he enquired on the feasibility of organising boating . He directed the Executive Officer of the temple to ensure the safety of pilgrims by providing proper bathing ghats at the tank.

At Guruvalappar Temple, he wanted the Block Development Officer, Jayankondam, to ensure road facility and public convenience, besides renovation of the temple tank. He wanted the administration at the temple at Gangaikonda Sozhapuram to provide cement flooring for visitors to sit and rest and also ensure cleanliness of the shrine’s surroundings. He urged the president of the panchayat to provide space for safe parking of vehicles.

Inspecting the accommodation for pilgrims, he wanted the officials to arrange for eateries and shops. The products of the self-help groups could be displayed there to attract visitors, he said.

After visiting Saluppai Azhagar temple, he wanted the officials to put up publicity boards on the historical importance of the temple.

Mr. Ravikumar wanted the venue near the Vaaranavasai cement unit, which had become a subject for historical research, fenced. To publicise its historical importance, he wanted the officials to put up publicity boards at the new bus stand, Kizhapazhur.

Apart from ordering formation of a park in front of the Irattai Temple at Melapazhur-Kizhayur, he wanted publicity boards on the temple to be put up on the highways from Tiruchi. He wanted the officials to organise facilities to identify the revolving stone in a pillar.

At Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple, he wanted the administration to improve the temple tank and beautify it. Besides, he suggested that the famous snake statue to be publicised.