Hyderabad is set to make waves in marine tourism with the announcement of India’s largest tunnel-style aquarium, coming soon to Nehru Zoological Park. Designed to offer an immersive “walk-under-the-ocean” experience, the project blends conservation, education, and entertainment in a futuristic format.
Project Overview and Design Highlights
- The aquarium will span approximately 4,000 square metres and feature a glass tunnel walk-through surrounded by marine life such as sharks, coral fish, and deep-sea species.
- Developed under a public-private partnership model, the project is estimated to cost Rs 50 crore and is expected to be completed by late 2026.
- International marine experts from Singapore and Australia are collaborating with Indian engineers to ensure world-class standards in climate control, lighting, and aquatic life support systems.
Educational and Experiential Features
- The facility will include thematic zones representing rivers, lakes, coral reefs, and deep-sea ecosystems.
- Visitors can engage with digital guides, augmented reality installations, and curated educational tours.
- Rare species like Amazonian arowanas and African cichlids will be showcased, making the aquarium a living classroom for students and wildlife enthusiasts.
Strategic and Cultural Impact
- The aquarium is part of the Telangana
government’s Mir Alam Development Programme and aligns with Hyderabad’s growing reputation as a tech and eco-tourism hub.
- Heritage sensitivities, including the nearby 200-year-old bund, influenced the decision to build within the zoo premises.
Once approved by the Central Zoo Authority, construction will begin, adding a new jewel to Hyderabad’s urban and ecological landscape.
Sources: The New Indian Express, India Today, Times of India, Moneycontrol, NowHyderabad.com, MSN News