Science Park coming up in Anna Nagar

The science project  has been sanctioned at a cost of Rs.2.14 crore

The corporation’s long-pending plan to establish a science park has taken off. Work on establishing the park on its 2.62 acre ground at Anna Nagar near Thennur here has begun after the civic body managed to get fund a few months back.

The project has been sanctioned at a cost of Rs.2.14 crore under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) of the Union Government. The Centre would contribute 50 per cent of the project cost and the State government 20 per cent. The corporation would bear 30 per cent of the cost, working to about Rs.64.20 lakhs.

The corporation had been trying to establish a science park. Over a decade back, the project was initiated in association with a private agency and a few equipment were installed. But the project was abandoned due to problems in finding a funding agency. In 2012, the Corporation decided to revive the project and scout for funds.

It had initiated the project as the city had few entertainment avenues but for parks. There is a need for a creating an affordable recreational avenue. The park will help promote the spirit of enquiry among youth, officials observed. The park would include a Hall of Science spread over about 2,000 square feet and an amphitheatre with a seating capacity of 200. Life science and energy would be main themes of the scientific models to be on display.

About 20 scientific equipment, both indoor and outdoor, and amusement equipment for children would be installed. Landscaped lawns, a walkers’ track and artificial fountains would form part of the park. The ground has adequate space to provide parking area for vehicles.

The work was under way in full swing and the park is expected to be ready by end of September this year, sources said.

Residents are happy. “We are happy that the project has finally taken off.

We hope it will be a good leisure hangout for youths and residents,” observed Ashok, a resident of Anna Nagar.