Nitesh Rane Directs Fast-Track of Panvel Aquarium Ahead of Diwali Groundbreaking
Maharashtra Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane on Monday directed officials to expedite the proposed Silla Aquarium and Sea Lion Entertainment Centre at Panvel, setting a target to hold the groundbreaking ceremony by Diwali.
Chairing a review meeting at Mantralaya, Rane assessed the technical framework, administrative requirements, and implementation of earlier decisions taken for the project. The ambitious facility is planned as a major hub combining marine education, scientific research, and tourism.
The project will utilise government land available in the Panvel area. Officials noted that the location's proximity to Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and the international airport will make it an attraction for both domestic and international visitors, while also providing practical exposure to students studying fisheries science and marine biology.
According to the proposed plans, the centre will feature marine and freshwater aquariums, an ocean tunnel, touch pools, jellyfish and coral reef displays, and a digital learning centre. It will also house dedicated facilities for the breeding and research of marine organisms.
In addition, the complex will include a sea lion entertainment centre, facilities for the care and training of marine mammals, an amphitheatre, a snow park, and a 12-D theatre. Visitor amenities such as food outlets, souvenir shops, gardens, and parking areas are also part of the plan.
Stressing the need for quality development, Rane called for a comprehensive long-term maintenance plan to be drafted alongside the project. He directed officials to schedule a follow-up review meeting in two weeks to assess the progress of the technical and administrative work.
The meeting was attended by officials from the Tourism Department, Fisheries Department, Raigad district administration, Panvel Municipal Corporation, and Dr Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, who were instructed to coordinate and submit their progress reports.
