MUMBAI: The Shivaji Memorial in the Arabian Sea will be built at a jaw-dropping cost of Rs 3,600 crore. The cash-strapped, debt-ridden government will provide funds for the project from its budget as well as seek financial assistance from the Centre.When first announced in 2009, the architect Team One, whose design was finalised, had proposed a project cost of Rs 700 crore. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said tenders have been invited for the project. “We have received all clearances including environmental clearance. The first phase will be completed by 2019,“ he said.Vinayak Mete, who is in charge of the project, said the tenders were floated the day the election code of conduct was announced for the nagar panchayat and council elections. “We had issued the advertisement in a couple of newspapers and now have asked the Election Commission if we can advertise in other places,“ he said.The first phase will involve reclamation, construction of the boundary wall, statue, pedestal, public facilities, the Bhavani temple, jetty at the memorial and security arrangements. The pedestal will house a library, art gallery, museum and the memorial administrative office. In the second phase, an amphitheatre to seat 5002,000 people will be construc ted where they can view a 3D and 4D display of important events in the life of Shivaji.“We are yet to decide on how much area needs to be reclaimed in the first phase--seven hectares or 15 hectares. The issue will be decided within a week,“ said Mete.The total area proposed is 15.96 hectares. The BJP-Shiv Sena government appointed a consultant, Egis, whose design will now be implemented. Around four committees have been set up to improve upon the design.