Chennai, 16 Oct (H.S.): DMK president M.K. Stalin on Friday claimed credit for the Rs 300-crore Periyar Arivulagam in Coimbatore, saying the distinction lay in conceiving and completing public projects rather than in who inaugurated them.

In a statement marking the opening of the library and science complex, Stalin described it as another major initiative of the previous DMK government reaching the public after the Poonamallee–Vadapalani Metro corridor.

He said the facility honoured social reformer Periyar, who devoted his life to promoting self-respect, rationalism and the advancement of Tamil society.

According to Stalin, the project was announced in the 2024–25 Budget to encourage the pursuit of knowledge among Coimbatore residents, particularly young people. Its foundation stone was laid on November 6, 2024.

Built on land belonging to Coimbatore Central Prison, the complex spans 1.98 lakh square feet and houses 1.25 lakh books. Stalin said it would become a major repository of knowledge for western Tamil Nadu.

Facilities include an art gallery, an accessible library for persons with disabilities, a space shuttle exhibit, science centres, a children’s library and a self-study section.

The complex also provides resources for competitive examination aspirants, Tamil and English book sections, periodicals, an incubation centre and a digital library.

Recalling his visit to Coimbatore in February, Stalin said most construction work had been completed. However, he had insisted that the remaining work be finished before the facility opened.

“The real distinction lies in creating what was planned,” he said, asserting that the DMK deserved recognition for bringing the project into being.

Stalin also recalled the Anna Centenary Library established by former chief minister M. Karunanidhi at Kotturpuram in Chennai.

He alleged that subsequent attempts were made to relocate and undermine it, adding that the DMK government revived the institution after returning to power in 2021, benefiting thousands of students daily.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman