Tamil Nadu Unveils India's First Glass Sea Bridge: A Landmark in Connectivity and Heritage + Banking_SBI_Clerk?.ToString()?? Banking_SBI_Clerk?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in News?
Tamil Nadu has inaugurated India's first glass sea bridge, connecting two iconic landmarks—the Tiruvalluvar Statue and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari. The bridge was unveiled during the silver jubilee celebrations of the Tiruvalluvar Statue.
Significance of the Inauguration
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated the bridge, commemorating 25 years of the Tiruvalluvar Statue, a symbol of Tamil cultural pride and heritage.
The bridge enhances connectivity and promotes cultural tourism by enabling seamless access between two major tourist destinations.
Key Features of the Glass Sea Bridge
Length and Width: The bridge spans 77 meters and is 10 meters wide.
Cost: Constructed at a cost of ₹37 crore.
Purpose:
Provides a pedestrian walkway for visitors to experience panoramic views of the sea.
Resolves transportation issues caused by rough seas and low tides.
Key Facts About the Tiruvalluvar Statue
Inauguration: The statue was unveiled on January 1, 2000, and recently renamed as the Statue of Wisdom.
Height: Stands 133 feet tall, symbolizing the 133 chapters of the Tirukkural, a revered Tamil literary work.
Cultural Significance:
Embodies the philosophy of social justice, encapsulated in the Tirukkural verse: “Pirapokkum ella uyirkkum” (Everyone is equal at birth).
Serves as a monumental representation of Tamil identity and heritage.
Engineering Feat:
Designed by renowned sculptor V. Ganapathi Sthapathi.
Weighs 7,000 tonnes and has withstood natural calamities, including the 2004 tsunami.
Key Facts About the Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Location: Situated 500 meters off the mainland in Kanniyakumari, at the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea.
History: Built in 1970 to honor Swami Vivekananda, who meditated on the rock and attained enlightenment.
Architectural Features:
Vivekananda Mandapam: A hall dedicated to Swami Vivekananda.
Shripada Mandapam: Built to enshrine the footprint of Devi Kanyakumari.
Dhyana Mandapam: A meditation hall for visitors.
Cultural and Economic Significance
Boost to Tourism:
The glass sea bridge is expected to draw domestic and international tourists, enhancing the region's tourism potential.
Preservation of Cultural Heritage:
Highlights Tamil Nadu’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural and historical identity.
Infrastructure Development:
Sets a benchmark for innovative projects combining tourism and modern engineering.
Way Forward
Promote Sustainable Tourism: Ensure the bridge and associated infrastructure adhere to environmental and safety standards.
Enhance Accessibility: Improve transportation facilities to Kanniyakumari to accommodate increased footfall.
Public Engagement: Use the project to educate visitors about Tamil culture and history.
Replicate Success: Explore similar infrastructure projects at other cultural and heritage sites across India to boost tourism and preserve history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in Competitive Exams:
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding Tamil Nadu's glass sea bridge:
1. It connects the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Tiruvalluvar Statue.
2. The bridge is 50 meters long and constructed at a cost of ₹30 crore.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q2. The Tiruvalluvar Statue, inaugurated in 2000, represents which of the following?
(a) Chapters of the Thirukkural
(b) Swami Vivekananda's teachings
(c) Tamil Nadu's historical architecture
(d) Equality among all living beings
Answer: (a) Chapters of the Thirukkural
Q3. Which of the following features are unique to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial?
1. It has a Dhyana Mandapam (Meditation Hall).
2. It is located at the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean.
3. It was constructed in 1950 to honor Swami Vivekananda's teachings.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Q4. The glass sea bridge in Tamil Nadu was inaugurated during which significant occasion?
(a) Golden Jubilee of Vivekananda Rock Memorial
(b) Silver Jubilee of the Tiruvalluvar Statue
(c) Centenary celebrations of Tamil Nadu State
(d) Inauguration of the Dhyana Mandapam
Answer: (b) Silver Jubilee of the Tiruvalluvar Statue