Vijay inaugurates knowledge centre, holds massive roadshow

Coimbatore: Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Friday inaugurated a knowledge centre here named after rational leader E V Ramasamy, took out a high-energy roadshow amid a massive crowd of supporters braving heavy downpour, but had to cancel a scheduled visit to Thrissur in Kerala by helicopter following inclement weather.

Vijay inaugurated the Periyar Arivulagam and Science Centre established on sprawling seven acres on Dr Nanjappa Road, Gandhipuram, here. Dravidian stalwart Ramasamy is respectfully addressed as “Periyar.” Vijay had to abandon his travel plans to Thrissur from Coimbatore for a private event owing to bad weather and heavy downpour in the city. A private helicopter was kept ready for the CM to fly after the official function in the city but on account of heavy rain, he had to remain in the city till the weather condition improved, only to return to Chennai in the evening. His scheduled helicopter trip to Thrissur was cancelled in the last minute due to bad weather and heavy rain in this western Tamil Nadu city, a source said.

Nevertheless, massive crowds of TVK party workers, fans, and local residents braved heavy rain in Coimbatore to catch a glimpse of Vijay during his official visit after he became chief minister in May. As heavy downpour lashed parts of the city, enthusiastic supporters and party cadres refused to leave their spots along the barricaded streets. The pouring rain failed to dampen the electric atmosphere, with supporters chanting slogans and transforming the thoroughfares into a massive wave of support. They stood tightly packed together for hours to welcome the leader.

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The Hans India