DNA
 
Nerul, Feb 11: The man who took up the cause to keep Navi Mumbai clean by means of modifying his Mahindra champion Teeper into a mini dumper has once again shown that determination and persistence can create wonders. Not happy with facilities for kids in city, Koparkhairane resident K Muralidharan this time has gone about modifying his 1996 model Mahindra 750 DP Jeep into a plane.

“We have nothing great to offer to our kids other than taking them for movies or to the parks that are not children friendly. This is my small gesture to inspire young intelligent minds to do something more substantial,” said Muralidharan.

The 12-seater plane which is five meter long, two meter wide and two-and-half meter tall was designed and remodeled by National Automobile Bodybuilder based in Shirwane sector 1. It has cushioned seats with seat belts and an ambience like that of a real plane. With two doors and cockpit, the young kids will have a hands on experience on etiquettes to be followed while on flight.

“It was hard work and vision of Sashi Acharya, owner of Automobile Bodybuilder that brought my dream into reality. My aim is to teach the kids mannerisms to be followed while on board, and  to teach them safety measure like those of wearing a seat belt,” said Muralidharan. 

Muralidharan has incurred nearly Rs 2 lakhs in the re modeling of this diesel run vehicle. Muralidharan said, “I was ridiculed in my earlier venture of transforming the Teeper into a dumper. But eventually even those who made fun turned around and have acknowledged my efforts. So even this time it’s nothing different for people have the right to give their opinion but I prefer to do things as per my wish.”

Muralidharan plans to take his creation to all municipal parks and give kids a chance to take a ride in this miniature plane. “The plane can run at a speed of 30 km per hour, so I plan to take it to all parks and let kids and adults get a feel of it. I will hold discussion with the Mayor to see what can be done to make it a thing of significance. And thereby incorporate such things in the parks for kids,” said Muralidharan.

Citizens can get a glimpse of this unique creation when Muralidharan will actually ply the plane during the procession carried on the celebration of the sixth anniversary Sree Narayana Guru Devagiri’s Pratishtadinum.