MLA Raees Shaikh Demands ACB Probe, Scrapping of BMC's ₹70 Cr Byculla Aquarium Project.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) proposed ₹70-crore aquarium project at the Byculla Zoo has hit a roadblock, facing sharp criticism and calls for a probe from Samajwadi Party MLA Raees Shaikh. Citing serious concerns over transparency and feasibility, Shaikh has written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding the immediate scrapping of the project's tender and a thorough investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).

The BMC recently gave its nod to the ₹70-crore proposal to construct a state-of-the-art aquarium within the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Botanical Garden and Zoo. The project promises modern attractions, including a dome aquarium, a walk-through tunnel, pop-up windows, and various acrylic tanks designed to house a diverse collection of fish species.

However, MLA Shaikh has vehemently opposed the plan, alleging corruption and a lack of transparency in the tendering process. “The participation of a lone bidder raises red flags and suggests that the process was manipulated to eliminate competition,” Shaikh stated. He further alleged that the sole bidding company might potentially be a front for senior BMC officials involved in the project, calling for an in-depth inquiry into these claims.

Beyond the tendering process, Shaikh also raised significant safety concerns regarding the chosen location for the aquarium, noting its proximity to the heavily frequented penguin enclosure. He questioned the project's feasibility given the site's limitations – it was originally intended for a souvenir shop and offers only about 5,000 sq ft with a ceiling height less than 20 feet.

Furthermore, Shaikh labeled the BMC's plan redundant and a misuse of public funds, particularly in light of the recent announcement by Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane regarding the establishment of a new international-standard, multi-storey aquarium at Taraporewala, located merely 5 kilometers away.

In his letter to the Chief Minister, MLA Raees Shaikh reiterated his demand for the immediate cancellation of the tender issued for the Byculla aquarium project and called for the matter to be handed over to the ACB for a comprehensive investigation into the alleged irregularities.