Growing up in Mumbai, one place that many of us have either visited or dreamt of exploring is the famous Taraporewala Aquarium, situated along Marine Drive. This beloved spot has been a go-to location for school picnics and family trips. However, it faced challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic and was later deemed structurally unsafe. However, now we have an update! The iconic aquarium is set for a substantial revival with a complete redesign. Maharashtra’s Fisheries Department has finalized plans for a new building that will take the place of the original structure, which had stood for over seventy years on Marine Drive.
The Taraporewala Aquarium is set to undergo a major revival project costing around INR 296 crore, aiming to turn it into one of the leading marine institutions in Asia. The new six-storey building will cover over 20,000 square meters and will include modern aquatic exhibits, educational spaces, and amenities for the public. This project is expected to become a prime attraction in Mumbai, with designs chosen from several submissions by a skilled international agency, and construction will begin soon.
The aquarium will be built on a 4,393 sq meter site and will feature 12 levels, including office and apartment spaces. A standout feature will be the large aquarium area of 6,500 sq meters, which includes a main tank that holds 3.5 million liters of water. Additionally, there will be a rooftop café, an atrium, marine education areas, and parking for 140 vehicles.
What Should You Know About Taraporewala Aquarium
The Taraporewala Aquarium, named after the philanthropist D.B. Taraporewala, was opened in 1951 by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who was then the President. At one point, it featured more than 400 species of marine and freshwater animals. In 2015, a significant renovation introduced a 12-foot acrylic tunnel for a captivating viewing experience. However, after a 2022 safety assessment indicated structural concerns, the aquarium closed, and in 2023, more than 500 aquatic species were relocated to facilities in Pune, Chandrapur, and Ahmedabad.
