June 19, 2025: Plans to redevelop Mumbai’s historic Taraporewala Aquarium have encountered another delay, as the tender issued in April 2025 to appoint a Project Management Consultant (PMC) has been officially cancelled. A senior official from the fisheries department confirmed the decision, citing the lack of relevant experience among the applicants.
“The PMC must have demonstrable expertise in managing aquarium-specific infrastructure projects. Unfortunately, none of the bidders fulfilled this essential criterion, leading to the cancellation of the tender,” the official stated. A new Request for Proposal (RFP) has now been submitted to the fisheries ministry and is expected to be reissued shortly.
Taraporewala Aquarium, situated along Marine Drive, is over 75 years old and remains one of Mumbai’s oldest marine attractions. The aquarium was closed during the COVID-19 lockdown and later declared structurally unsafe in 2022. Since then, various proposals for redevelopment have been under discussion but have failed to progress beyond the planning stage.
The proposed revamp includes the construction of a modern, larger facility on the same seafront site. The upgraded aquarium is expected to feature state-of-the-art infrastructure, interactive exhibits, and improved marine biodiversity displays aimed at enhancing both educational and recreational value. Additionally, the redeveloped complex will also house offices of the fisheries department.
The cancellation of the tender marks yet another setback in the effort to revive this iconic public institution. However, officials remain hopeful that with revised tender terms and more targeted outreach, suitably qualified consultants will come forward during the next round of bidding.
Once operational, the new Taraporewala Aquarium is expected to serve as a major marine education and tourism hub, contributing significantly to Mumbai’s cultural and environmental landscape.
Source: The Free Press Journal
