Kovalam lighthouse set to reopen after revamp

Kovalam: The revamped lighthouse near the Kovalam beach is set to be reopened on Monday. The towering landmark located at Vizhinjam was shut down for an overhaul aimed primarily to ease the climb to the top of the tower.

The old staircase has been restructured by building two stages of stairs so that the ascend is easier than in the past. At the first stage there are seven steps; then comes a small platform beyond which is a six-step ascend to the balcony.

A lift was installed at the light house a year ago for visitors to reach the top, but those who exited the lift were finding the climb to the balcony hard because the stairs were steep.

The overhaul was aimed primarily at fixing this problem.

Railings have also been provided to hold on to as one takes the flight of steps.

As a security measure, the protective barricade on the balcony has been raised by two feet.

Musical-dancing fountain next month

Lighthouse authorities said a musical-dancing fountain being installed as part of the improvements at the venue will be ready by the end of next month.

Equipment are being installed to make the fountain dance to the tunes and currently the work is halfway through.

A kiosk for light refreshment, a garden and parking facilities are also being readied.

The authorities said Rs 2.5 crore is the outlay for the improvements being carried out at the tourist site.