Hollande to witness man’s first tools in Sec-10 museum

French President Francois Hollande is expected to mark his visit to the city on January 24 by going through relics of history. As part of his itinerary that is in the process of being firmed up, Hollande will visit the Chandigarh Arts Museum in Sector 10 on January 24.

French President Francois Hollande is expected to mark his visit to the city on January 24 by going through relics of history. As part of his itinerary that is in the process of being firmed up, Hollande will visit the Chandigarh Arts Museum in Sector 10 on January 24.

The dignitary will witness archaeological excavations, mostly the earliest tools and fossils known to mankind, and discovered at Shivalik foothills near Ropar. A joint project of French and Indian archaeologists, these tools would be transported and displayed at the museum. A team of archaeologists is expected to arrive to make arrangements on January 20.

Hollande, a fan of French architect Le Corbusier, will also visit the Capitol Complex with sources adding that the Rock Garden is also part of his programme.

During his one day visit, the President is also expected to attend a meeting with chief executive officers of different companies from India and France in an event scheduled at Hotel Taj in Sector 17.

Sources said Hollande is scheduled to land in the city on January 24. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to receive him at the technical area of the Chandigarh Air Force Station.

SECURITY BEEF-UP STARTS ON JAN 19

From Tuesday, security will be beefed up at all the places where the dignitary is expected to go. Sanitisation of all such places is on and bomb disposal squads have also been arranged.

The administration may also restrict public access at these places on January 24.

Officials said prior information would be shared if restrictions are to be placed on public movement on the timings of visit to Rock Garden, Capitol Complex or Arts Museum in Sector 10.

ROUTES DISCUSSED

Chief of protocol for the visit Sanjay Verma along with other officers from the ministry of external affairs met UT adviser Vijay Dev and home secretary Anurag Agarwal and other officials to discuss the detailed programme of the visit.

Verma also visited the sites and spots the President is expected to visit. The routes for the visit were also discussed with the police.d