Advertisement
The Maharashtra State Fisheries Department has decided to drop its earlier plan for redeveloping the Taraporewala Aquarium after realizing it lacked specialized aquarium design expertise. The April plan had proposed a six-storey building at an estimated cost of INR 296 crore. The new approach involves appointing a world-class consultant and architect to prepare a detailed project report and manage the project. The revised plan has a sanctioned budget of INR 350 crore and is expected to take 1.5 years. The over 75-year-old aquarium, closed during the COVID lockdown, previously housed more than 500 aquatic species.
The Maharashtra State Fisheries Department has decided to cancel its previous redevelopment plan for the Taraporewala Aquarium, citing a lack of specialized expertise in aquarium design. The earlier plan, finalized in April, had proposed a six-storey building with a total built-up area of over 20,000 square meters, featuring modern aquatic exhibits, educational zones, and public amenities, at an estimated cost of INR 296 crore. Officials confirmed that since the plan did not involve aquarium experts, it has now been scrapped. Advertisement
The department is moving forward by inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) to appoint a world-class consultant. This consultant will conduct a feasibility study, prepare a detailed project report (DPR), and act as a Project Management Unit to ensure a comprehensive and well-coordinated plan. Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane stated that internationally renowned companies have expressed interest in the project, and a New Zealand architect will also be involved. The revised project has a sanctioned budget of INR 350 crore and is expected to be completed in approximately 1.5 years, creating a modern, world-class aquarium aimed at attracting tourists from across the globe.
The Taraporewala Aquarium, located on Marine Drive, Mumbai, is an over 75-year-old structure housed in an Art Deco building known for its soaring lines and aquatic motifs. It was closed during the COVID lockdown, and following a structural audit by the Public Works Department in 2022, it was declared unsafe. During the closure, more than 500 aquatic species were relocated to other aquariums. The old aquarium received a fresh variety of fish in 2015, which helped maintain its aquatic diversity.
The earlier redevelopment plan had proposed a new 12-storey building featuring a 6,500-square-meter aquarium floor, a main tank with a capacity of 3.5 million liters of water, a restaurant, office space for the state fisheries department, private offices for rent, and parking for 140 vehicles. The revised approach now focuses on creating a holistic and internationally benchmarked design while addressing structural concerns and modern visitor amenities.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
