Copyright thehindu
With the current contractor expressing unwillingness to operate and maintain the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Park at Sree Garden in Surampatti, the Corporation has decided to invite a new operator to run the facility. Established under the Smart Cities Mission at ₹9.50 crore, the park covers 48,900 sq. ft. and features science and mathematics gadgets, evolution exhibits, a science sphere, an indoor gallery, an observatory dome with a telescope, and a space zone. The fully air-conditioned digital planetarium has a 360-degree dome with a high-end projection system for screening videos on astronomical and expedition topics. The park includes a play zone for children. Ankidyne, a manufacturer and installer of science park exhibits, was licensed to operate the park from October 2023 to September 2024 and it was extended till September 2025. However, following the recent demise of its founder, the company handed over maintenance to the civic body on September 30, 2025. The Corporation had fixed entrance and activity fees, including those for trampoline and sky-watching equipment, and increased its revenue share from 15% to 25% last year. A senior Corporation engineer said the annual maintenance cost is about ₹16.04 lakh, covering salaries, repairs, and other expenses. “It is not feasible for the Corporation to maintain the park directly. Hence, a new contractor will be appointed through tender. A deposit of ₹10 lakh has been fixed,” the official said, adding that the Corporation will manage the park temporarily until a new operator takes charge.
