With plans to introduce a sound and light show, boating and toy train facilities, the old collector’s office building in Thanjavur, now converted into a museum, will get a face lift soon.

Following the shifting of the Collector’s office to the new building at Pillaiyarpatti on the Thanajvur-Tiruchi national highway in June 2015, the century-old historic building , situated at the heart of the locality, was converted into a museum in August the same year, featuring various stalls highlighting the history, culture and the importance of the irrigation system of the district.

As for domestic tourists, an entry fee of Rs. 5 for adults and Rs. 2 for children is collected towards its maintenance and upkeep while an entry fee of Rs. 30 is collected from foreign tourists. A mini aquarium has been set up to attract children and an entry fee of Rs. 10 is charged per person. A visitors’ gallery, to view the Big Temple from atop the building, has been set up.

The museum, however, failed to attract more visitors. An average of 5 persons visit the museum daily, sources said.

Once majestic, the building has lost its sheen and is in a sorry state now. The collector’s chamber remains unkempt and unused. The park is an eyesore due to lack of proper maintenance.

According to tourist officer R. Rajasekar, the 100-year-old building will be given a face-lift soon. “The park will be developed and boating facility and toy train for children will be introduced. A sound and light show has also been planned to attract more visitors. Weekly cultural programmes will be organized in association with the Department of Culture and South Zone Cultural Centre (SZCC),” Rajasekar added.