THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Promising a visual treat for Nature enthusiasts, the Forest Department has begun the construction of a unique natural history museum on a 3.3-acre plot at Kulathupuzha. Billed as the first of its kind in the state, the museum will offer a slice of wildlife to the visitors along with providing an opportunity for scholars who want to do research in forest disciplines.The objective is to provide entertainment and information on wildlife, nature and its unique biodiversity and culture.
The museum will also have an audio-visual room, an eco-shop, a cafeteria, tribal huts, guest houses, a children’s park, and a bathing ghat, along with other facilities.Speaking to ‘Express’, Abdul Jaleel S, Range Forest Officer, Kulathupuzha, said the visitors will get a chance to buy forest produce from the Vanasree outlets which will be set up as part of the museum.
To showcase the majesty of the wildlife, articles like antlers and ivory tusks will be displayed. The museum will also have a section on endangered plants and other rare things sourced from the forests.
The Habitat Technology Group is entrusted with the task of setting up the museum for which the foundation stone was laid by the Forest Minster K Raju the other day. To be built at an estimated cost of Rs 9.85 crore, it is expected to be completed in 18 months, said Raju.