The Kerala State Coastal Development Corporation and Ernst & Young have joined hands to establish an oceanarium and a marine biological museum in Kollam. The ₹300-crore project, a first-of-its-kind initiative in Kerala, aims to promote marine science research, biodiversity conservation, and tourism, boosting the state’s economy and global recognition in marine tourism.
The decision was finalized during a meeting chaired by Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal on Tuesday. The project will follow a public-private partnership model, with the State Budget allocating ₹10 crore for its initial phase. Suggestions and feedback from people’s representatives will shape the project’s future course.
Key features of the proposed oceanarium include a fish pavilion, touch tanks, theme galleries, tunnel oceanarium, amphitheater, souvenir shops, multimedia theatre, marine biology lab, display zones, and a cafeteria. The initiative will also highlight Kerala’s rich maritime heritage and biodiversity while promoting environmental protection and scientific research.
At the same meeting, a ₹5-crore project for the construction of ‘Kallumala Square’ near Cantonment Maidan in Kollam was also discussed. The Coastal Development Corporation will soon submit this proposal for administrative approval. Additionally, initial discussions were held for the ₹10-crore renovation of Kollam beach. Architects involved in the Kozhikode beach project shared insights on creating attractive facilities with minimal new constructions.
The meeting was attended by MLAs M. Noushad and M. Mukesh, Kollam Mayor Prasanna Ernest, Deputy Mayor Kollam Madhu, District Collector N. Devidas, and officials from various departments. Discussions also covered the construction of groynes to prevent coastal erosion, ensuring the holistic development of Kollam’s coastal region.
