Mangaluru: Planning, statistics, science & technology minister M R Seetharam said chief minister Siddaramiah will inaugurate Asia’s first 3D Planetarium at Pilikula by the end of January or in the first week of February.
Experts from Mumbai-based Infovision Technologies Pvt Ltd told the minister that 85% of the work of the Swami Vivekananda 3D Planetarium, which is being set up at an estimated cost of Rs 35.69 crore, has been completed. The minister, who held a review meeting at Pilikula Nisargadhama on Thursday, said he has released Rs 5 crore to develop a new concrete road from Vamanjur to Pilikula.
“More funds will flow towards the development of Pilikula Nisargadhama soon after a separate development authority is formed for Mangaluru’s most sought-after tourist destination. The new Swami Vivekananda Planetarium with 18 metre-diameter/15 degree nano seam dome and opto-mechanical 8K digital projection system, is the first hybrid active 3D planetarium in Asia. All works are in its final stage and the process of appointment of staff for the planetarium is also under progress,” he said.
“While the civil works of the planetarium with 180 seats is complete, the installation of instruments and equipment of 3D Active Digital Hybrid Planetarium is being taken up by Evans & Sutherland Computer Corporation, USA, through Infovision Technologies,” the minister said, adding that the government has plans to convert Pilikula into a major tourism destination in the state.
Mangaluru City South MLA J R Lobo said the minister has sanctioned Rs 5 crore to develop a four-lane concrete road to Pilikula from the national highway junction at Vamanjoor. The minister also promised funds for the development of Pilikula Nisargadhama.