Science City project unveiled by Gujarat govt

Binu Alex


Ahmedabad

The Union Home Minister, L K Advani unveiled the ambitious

'Science City' project developed by the government of Gujarat.

Termed as the link between science, industry and community and

meant to popularize science using 'Edutainment', the Science City

will also help in developing scientific temper, nurturing and

stimulating scientific faculties, showcasing breakthroughs in

science and technology and establishing countrywide network.

But industry sources have crossed the fingers as another pet

project, Info City at Gandhinagar is yet to take off and all the

tall claims have gone haywire. Part of it, sources say, is

attributed to the January 26, 2001 killer quake and the

continuing drought conditions in the state. They add that unless

the state makes some statutory changes, like lifting the

prohibition, situation will not improve.

The political analysts have also questioned the objective behind

the project saying the human conditions have to be improved

before science is introduced. "What is the use of a science

that can not give proper food and water to the people of Gujarat?

The only questions is of fixing priorities right," felt some

of them.

Speaking on the occasion, Advani however, said that more than

physical strength or financial strength, it is the strength of knowledge that drives any nation. Advani, along with all the

cabinet of the state government lighted the lamp amidst heavy

showers. The rain forced the organizers to cancel many shows that

were scheduled for the evening.

85 percent of the vast land, covering over 500 acres of land is

reserved for tree avenues, gardens, water bodies, rockeries and

horticulture parks. A space park and a solar park are also in the

offing. Another attraction is an IMAX 3D-film theatre with a

seating capacity of about 550 people with images ten times larger

than a conventional 35-mm frame and a number of pavilions.

Bimal Shah, State Minister of Information and Technology also

sounded optimistic at the project. He said that the project will

be one of its kinds in Asia and he plans to promote tourism once

it develops. Anantkumar, Union Tourism Minister, also echoed the

optimism.

(CNS)