Fri Sep 12 16:12:40 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, along with a concise summary of the other mentioned features:

**Summary of the text:**

The Madurai Corporation is demolishing its old kalyana mandapam (marriage hall) on Pamban Road, built in 1970, due to its dilapidated condition. A new mandapam will be constructed at a cost of ₹2.25 crore, funded by the Corporation, the South MLA’s Constituency Development Fund, and the Chief Minister. The new facility will initially have a seating capacity of 250, restrooms, and rooms for the wedding party. It aims to benefit residents of nearby locations, especially those from economically weaker sections, and is expected to be completed in six months.

**News Article:**

**Madurai Gets New Marriage Hall: Corporation Begins Construction of ₹2.25 Crore Kalyana Mandapam**

**MADURAI, September 12, 2025** – The Madurai Corporation commenced construction of a new kalyana mandapam (marriage hall) on Pamban Road today, marking a significant upgrade to community facilities in the Madurai South Assembly Constituency. A bhoomi puja was held on the premises to mark the start of the project.

The existing mandapam, built in 1970 under the tenure of then-Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, has been deemed structurally unsound with significant cracks, necessitating its demolition. The new facility is being built at a cost of ₹2.25 crore, with funding contributions from the Corporation, South MLA Boominathan’s Constituency Development Fund (₹1 crore), and a ₹1.25 crore contribution pledged by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.

According to Corporation Commissioner Chitra Vijayan, the new mandapam will be a boon to residents of Keerathurai, Kamarajapuram, South Gate, and surrounding areas. The initial phase of construction will focus on the ground floor, providing seating for 250 people, restrooms, and dedicated rooms for the bride and groom. The building will occupy an area of 2,950 square feet. Plans are in place to add a first floor with additional facilities in a subsequent phase.

MLA Boominathan emphasized the benefits for the economically weaker sections of the community. The new mandapam is expected to be completed and operational within six months. The Corporation will revise rental fees for the new facility, although the initial range was ₹2,500 to ₹6,000 per day.

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