Kolkata is poised for a major transformation in its events and conference infrastructure with a planned state-of-the-art facility at Science City. This ambitious project aims to significantly enhance the city's 'Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions' (MICE) capabilities, positioning it as a premier destination for large-scale national and international gatherings.
A Mega Indoor Venue for Eastern India
The cornerstone of this development is the proposed construction of a cutting-edge modular exposition-cum-conference centre at the Science City fairground. With an estimated investment ranging between Rs 200 crore and Rs 250 crore, this facility is designed to become the largest indoor venue in Eastern India. Once completed, it will have the capacity to host over 5,000 people under one roof.
When combined with the two existing auditoriums at Science City—the main hall seating 2,232 and a mini-auditorium for 400—the overall complex will be able to accommodate approximately 8,000 attendees. This will more than double the capacity of the current largest venue in the city, the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, which can handle around 4,000 people.
Year-Round Utilization and Financial Sustainability
According to A D Choudhury, director-general of the National Council of Science Museums, the project is driven by the need for better year-round utilization of the space. "The ground that we have is booked for three winters by organisers of fairs and expositions. But other than these 120 days, its utilisation is poor due to the heat and rain. Once it becomes an indoor facility, we expect bookings all year round," Choudhury explained.
This shift is critical for the financial health of Science City. The centre currently requires about Rs 20 crore annually for upkeep and modernization. While it attracts around 16 lakh visitors a year for its science exhibits, conventions and trade fairs bring in an additional 7 lakh. The new, versatile facility is expected to generate substantial revenue to support its operations and future development.
Design, Flexibility, and Supporting Infrastructure
Work has already commenced on preparing a detailed project report, which is slated for completion by the middle of next year. The design brief calls for a permanent indoor exposition space built with a modular structure. This innovative design will allow the space to be partitioned for multiple simultaneous events or combined to create a single, massive venue for mega-events.
Science City director Pramod Grover provided more details: "The proposed auditorium will feature a sprawling floorspace of approximately 3 lakh square feet, designed to host a wide range of events, from large conventions to intimate gatherings." This flexibility is key to attracting a diverse portfolio of events.
Recognizing the need for improved amenities, plans are also in motion to expand the parking facilities. The capacity will be increased from the current 500 vehicles to at least 1,000 vehicles, ensuring a smoother experience for the larger crowds expected at major events.
Elevating Kolkata's MICE Profile
The development of this modern, adaptable venue is set to elevate Kolkata's status in the competitive MICE industry significantly. By offering a world-class facility that can host everything from international trade fairs to cultural mega-events, the city is poised to draw more business tourism and high-profile events to the region.
As the proposal moves forward, stakeholders, the hospitality sector, and residents are watching closely. This project promises not only to reshape Kolkata's event-hosting capabilities but also to inject new vibrancy and economic activity into the city's growing MICE sector, securing its place on the map for major national and international gatherings.
