Mon Nov 24 15:27:34 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Coimbatore, India is set to inaugurate its new 45-acre Semmozhi Poonga botanical garden, built on the former Central Prison grounds. The park, costing ₹208.5 crore, boasts over 2,000 plant species, including rare varieties like the pepper tree, sandalwood, redwood trees, and black fig bonsai. The park aims to be a space for conservation, recreation, education, and environmental awareness. The project includes themed gardens, walkways, an amphitheater, and advanced features like an app with plant information and future plans for AI/AR/VR entertainment. The park is set to be opened by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.

News Article:

Coimbatore’s Semmozhi Poonga Set to Open, Showcasing Botanical Diversity

Coimbatore, India – November 24, 2025 – The city of Coimbatore is buzzing with anticipation as the new Semmozhi Poonga botanical garden prepares to open its gates tomorrow. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is scheduled to inaugurate the 45-acre park, a project that has transformed the grounds of the former Central Prison in Gandhipuram into a haven for over 2,000 plant species.

The ₹208.5 crore development promises a unique experience for visitors. The curated collection includes rare and region-specific flora, such as the pepper tree native to North America, Chile, and Brazil, as well as sandalwood, redwood trees, and a black fig bonsai celebrated for its air-purifying properties.

Architect Roopmathi Anand detailed the park’s design, emphasizing its thematic zones, accessible pathways, and integration of medicinal, ornamental, and endemic plants. “Semmozhi Poonga is essentially a botanical garden with a focus on conservation, reviving rare flora, and educating younger generations.” Anand said, drawing inspiration from renowned gardens like London’s Kew Gardens and the Singapore Botanical Garden.

Coimbatore Corporation Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran confirmed the completion of most works. The park features over two kilometers of walkways, 23 themed gardens, and a dedicated app with QR codes providing information on each plant. Visitors can also enjoy ornamental lighting, comfortable seating, co-working spaces, disabled-friendly areas, an all-access gym, and a 500-seat amphitheater. A rainwater storage system with a 15 lakh litre capacity will be used for reuse.

Future additions to the park, planned in a phased manner, include AI-based gaming zones, augmented and virtual reality experiences, and a 12D theatre, promising an immersive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

The Semmozhi Poonga is poised to become a significant landmark in Coimbatore, offering a blend of education, recreation, and environmental awareness for the community.

Read More