Thiruvananthapuram: The much-delayed wave-proof gallery at Shanghumugham beach is expected to be opened to the public by the end of Nov, with the remaining construction work likely to be completed within a month, according to the irrigation department officials. The project, which was initially expected to be completed ahead of Onam, suffered delays following objections to construction near the historic Arattu Mandapam and interruptions during work.Officials said construction of the gallery was progressing after work resumed recently. While a major portion of the structure has been completed, drainage arrangements and tile-laying work remain to be finished before the facility can be opened to visitors.“The remaining work is expected to be completed within a month,” an official associated with the project said.The gallery forms a key component of the Rs 14-crore beach restoration and coastal protection project being implemented by the major irrigation department. The initiative aims to improve the beachfront, which has suffered extensive damage from repeated sea erosion, while providing visitors with a space to enjoy the Arabian Sea.The project envisages a gallery along a stretch of approximately 355m, supported by coastal protection structures designed to withstand strong waves. It also includes stone pitching, improvements to pedestrian access and ramps to facilitate the movement of fishermen and devotees participating in the traditional Arattu procession of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.The project was expected to be completed before Onam, but construction was disrupted in June and July after objections were raised over modifications near the Arattu Mandapam. The proposed structure and access arrangements were criticised by BJP district leaders, who argued that the construction could obstruct the traditional route used for the Arattu procession. The controversy led to a temporary suspension of work and restarting construction took additional time.The department is now hoping to complete the remaining work without further interruptions. The absence of strong sea incursions in recent days has also provided more favourable conditions for construction, officials said.Shanghumugham, once among the city’s most popular recreational destinations, has remained largely inaccessible during restoration work. The prolonged closure has affected visitors and businesses that depend on beach tourism.The reopening of the gallery is expected to mark a significant step towards restoring public access to the beach, although additional drainage and related finishing works must be completed before the facility is opened.
