Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is considering the development of an ‘underwater world aquarium’. This innovative initiative aims to foster public interest in marine ecology while also providing a unique recreational facility in the heart of Kolkata.
The proposed site, located at 34 A Belvedere Road and spanning approximately 254 cottahs, currently hosts an assortment of facilities including an aquarium, an auditorium, a veterinary hospital, a nursery, and staff quarters. Despite its prime location opposite the Alipore Zoo, the land has not been fully utilised, with some of its existing structures such as the auditorium and staff quarters reportedly in a state of disrepair.
Following a joint inspection involving key stakeholders such as the Mayor, the KMC municipal commissioner, the state’s chief secretary, and officials from the Public Works and Forest Departments, a consensus emerged on the need for a more effective use of this valuable land. The deliberations concluded with a proposal to develop an ‘underwater world aquarium’, envisioned as a premier attraction for both residents and visitors. This new facility would not only serve as a recreational space but also as an educational hub, raising awareness about marine life and ecology. To facilitate this project, KMC plans to conduct an e-auction for the land through the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). This approach mirrors previous instances where e-auctions have been successfully utilised to allocate public land for commercial purposes. The land is expected to be designated for commercial use following the necessary planning and government approvals.
A Member-Mayor-In-Council (MMIC) meeting has already considered the proposal to classify the land as commercial, paving the way for the e-auction process. The state government will play a crucial role in determining whether the land will be offered on a freehold or leasehold basis, a decision that is pivotal to the auction’s terms. The KMC is currently awaiting the formal approval of this ambitious proposal, which is scheduled for a decision on August 30. Should the plan be greenlit, it would mark a significant step forward in the city’s efforts to blend urban development with environmental education and sustainable tourism.
The proposed aquarium project reflects a broader trend in urban planning where city administrations are increasingly recognising the value of combining educational initiatives with public amenities. By integrating an underwater world concept within the city’s existing landscape, Kolkata aims to set a benchmark for other urban centres looking to innovate within their ecological and recreational spaces. As Kolkata moves closer to potentially unveiling its ‘underwater world aquarium’, the civic body’s decision underscores its commitment to enhancing urban spaces in ways that are both economically viable and environmentally conscious. The success of this project will largely depend on its execution and the public’s response to this novel addition to the city’s array of attractions.
