Puri to get state-of-the-art marine aquarium and underwater zoo, Odisha govt invites EOI

The Odisha government has initiated steps to set up a world-class marine aquarium and underwater zoo near Puri beach, aiming to make the pilgrim city a key destination for marine tourism alongside its religious and cultural landmarks.

The Fisheries and Animal Resources Development (F&ARD) Department, on Tuesday, issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting private participation for the project.

Project To Be Implemented Under PPP Model

According to the EOI, the facility will be developed through a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement. The selected private organisation will design, construct, own and operate the project as a commercial venture.

While the private player will be responsible for both investment and operational costs, the state government will provide land at a subsidised rate and may consider viability gap funding to address capital expenditure.

The planned facility is expected to feature international-standard marine exhibits with an emphasis on conservation, education and sustainable development. The chosen partner will also be tasked with ensuring statutory and environmental compliance, while developing infrastructure that can cater to both domestic and international visitors.

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Submission Deadlines And Review Process

Interested firms must submit their proposals by October 10, 2025. The department will begin reviewing submissions on October 20, and the final decision on the selected bidder will be announced on October 30.

The selected organisation will also be responsible for developing exhibits of global quality, maintaining the facility, and executing marketing and promotional activities to draw visitors.

Notably, the marine aquarium proposal is part of a larger plan to introduce new tourist attractions in and around Puri. Alongside the Jagannath Temple and the city’s beaches, the new facility is intended to broaden Puri’s profile as a multi-faceted tourism hub, which will be complemented by the upcoming Shree Jagannath International Airport.