Development works to give a facelift to the city, hosting the World Classical Tamil Conference from June 23, would be completed by June 15, Tamil Nadu chief secretary K S Sripathi said today.

Speaking to reporters here after reviewing various works, he said almost 75 per cent of the works have been completed.

"The city will be ready to hold the five-day conference by June 15," he said.

On security arrangements, he said adequate number of personnel would be deployed, considering the presence of VVIPs and foreign delegates.

To a question on the proposed botanical gardens to commemorate the Conference, he said the design plan was in the final stage and works would be expedited. It was also planned to plant one lakh saplings before the conference, he said.

To another question on declaring a holiday for the state prior to the meet, Sripathi said there was no such plan.But the Collector could use his discretion in declaring a holiday for all schools and educational institutions in the district.

He said most delegates and other participants would be accommodated in educational institutions in and around the city, he said.