"The national memorial project will be completed before the start of the centenary year. The first phase, which includes the underground chambers in the basement of the (erstwhile) Mayor's Bungalow (near Shivaji Park), has been completed," the former chief minister told reporters

The second phase will highlight the life and times of the Shiv Sena founder and the tender for works connected to it will be issued soon, he said

"Construction of the memorial has been a challenge since the bungalow is close to the sea and is subject to CRZ (Coastal Regulation Zone) norms. Moreover, the bungalow is a heritage structure, which needs to be protected. The Mayor's Bungalow was close to Balasaheb's heart," he said

Highlighting the environment-friendly way in which the memorial is being constructed, the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief said no trees were cut for the project

"In fact, more trees were planted. The number of trees has gone up from 211 to 233 at present. There is lot of greenery on the premises," the former CM pointed out

Aaditya Thackeray, the late leader's grandson and a member of the trust helming the memorial project, said the first phase is about architecture, while the second will be about content display and is expected to be completed in the next six months