Swamimalai Temple Elevators Fail Shortly After Rs 3.5 Crore Inauguration
In an embarrassing turn of events, two newly installed elevators at the revered Swamimalai Murugan Temple in Thanjavur district malfunctioned almost immediately after their formal inauguration on Monday. The elevators, which were constructed at a substantial cost of Rs 3.5 crore, were intended to assist elderly devotees, patients, and individuals with disabilities in accessing the hilltop shrine.
Ministerial Inauguration Turns Sour
The elevators were inaugurated by HR&CE minister P K Sekar Babu in the presence of higher education minister Govi Chezhian, Papanasam MLA M H Jawahirullah, Kumbakonam MLA Anbalagan, and several HR&CE officials. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the ministers and other dignitaries boarded one of the elevators to travel from the lower precinct to the upper precinct, where the sanctum sanctorum of Swaminathaswamy is located.
However, the lift failed to move after the doors closed, leaving the occupants stranded. The operator had to step out and request everyone to exit the malfunctioning elevator. A visibly irritated Sekar Babu tapped the operator on his back as he walked away from the scene.
Second Elevator Also Experiences Issues
The group then attempted to use the second elevator, which did function but reportedly experienced noticeable power fluctuations during the ascent. After reaching the hilltop, the ministers, appearing displeased, opted to return to the base using the stairs instead of risking another elevator ride.
Viral Video and Political Backlash
The entire incident was captured on video and quickly went viral on various social media platforms, sparking widespread criticism. Opposition parties seized the opportunity to lambast the government over the apparent failure.
Former state BJP president K Annamalai was particularly vocal, alleging poor quality in the execution of the project and demanding a detailed explanation from the government regarding the expenditure and technical oversight.
Background and Immediate Aftermath
The Swamimalai Murugan Temple is one of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan, collectively known as the Arupadaiveedu. The installation of the elevators was a significant project aimed at improving accessibility for all devotees.
In the wake of the malfunction, temple authorities have closed both elevators to the public for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs. The incident has raised serious questions about the quality control and testing procedures undertaken before the high-profile inauguration.
