Odisha Plans International-Standard Marine Aquarium, Underwater Zoo in Puri

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is set to add a new dimension to Puri’s global appeal with plans to establish an international-standard marine aquarium and underwater zoo near the beach.

The Fisheries and Animal Resources Development (F&ARD) Department has floated an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the ambitious project, aimed at boosting marine tourism while promoting education, conservation, and sustainable development.

Envisioned as a world-class attraction, the facility is expected to complement Puri’s iconic Shree Jagannath Temple and its beaches, positioning the pilgrim city as a global hub for marine tourism.

According to the EOI, the project will be developed under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. The selected private partner will design, build, own, and operate the facility, bearing the investment and operational costs. The state government will provide land at a subsidised rate and may also consider offering viability gap funding to meet capital expenditure requirements.

The private operator will be responsible for creating international-standard exhibits, ensuring statutory and environmental compliance, and undertaking marketing and promotional initiatives to attract both domestic and international tourists.

Interested organisations have been invited to submit proposals by October 10. The department will begin reviewing submissions from October 20, with the final announcement of the selected partner expected on October 30.