Hyderabad, April 04: The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) aspiration of taking up an active role in spread of environmental awareness looks to have run into a dead-end.
And like for most projects that have been held back, the blame for the Environmental Science Centre (ESC) failing to take shape is laid on the HMDA coffers not getting replenished the way they did during the real estate boom.
It had been more than three years since the intention was announced to set up an ESC of international standards on the premises of Lumbini Park on the shores of Hussainsagar lake. However, the project had so far failed to get initiated though the proposal was approved and it was also decided to have a tie-up with Centre for Environment Education (CEE).
The Ahmedabad-based CEE, a national institution affiliated to the Nehru Foundation for Development and supported by the Union Ministry of Environment & Forests, had submitted a proposal for the project with an estimated cost of around Rs.2.80 crore.
Project details
Drawing inspiration from the much acclaimed Lake Biwa Museum of Central Japan, this museum was proposed on 1,200 square metres identified in the Lumbini Park premises and the idea mooted was to have a three-floored complex spread over 14,000 sft.
The scope of the work was aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding on the importance of environment for visitors with the aid of photo-text panels, dioramas, working models, 3-D models, interactive maps, projection system, signage apart from telescope and touch screens.
Though the HMDA approved the CEE proposal for execution of the project which involved planning and designing, fabricating and installing exhibits, raising funds for it turned to be an issue beyond its reach. Given the fragile budgetary conditions, it could not go ahead on its own with the much publicised museum, which was to come up with a special focus on the historic Hussainsagar lake and its conservation.
To move the project ahead, the HMDA has been left with no option but look for financial support from agencies such as Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) which had already come out in aid of projects such as Outer Ring Road and the Hussainsagar Lake and Catchment Area Improvement Project, officials pointed out.
–Agencies