Madurai's New Science Park Faces Backlash Over Inconvenient Operating Hours
Residents of Madurai visiting the recently inaugurated Thirunagar Science Park have been left frustrated and disappointed after repeatedly finding the facility shut during the middle of the day. The park, which was established with much anticipation as a unique educational and recreational space, is now facing criticism for its operating schedule, which many describe as highly inconvenient compared to other public parks in the city.
Limited Access Defeats Educational Purpose
The Thirunagar Science Park, developed by Ankidyne at an estimated cost of ₹2.7 crore, features a range of interactive exhibits designed to explain basic physics concepts and models that highlight ISRO's space missions. Initially welcomed as a refreshing blend of education and recreation outside the traditional classroom environment, the initiative is now seen as falling short due to its restrictive hours.
According to local residents, the park opens around 10:30 AM and closes by 12:30 PM, only to reopen from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. This staggered schedule has proven problematic for both morning walkers and families with school-going children.
"It is too late for morning walkers, and by the time it opens, children are already in school," said a Thirunagar resident, who also pointed out that the two-hour evening window is insufficient for meaningful engagement with the exhibits.
Calls for Extended and Earlier Hours
M Pandiarajan, secretary of the Tamil Nadu Science Forum, has voiced strong recommendations to address these accessibility issues. He suggested that the park should open much earlier, preferably by 6:30 AM or 7:00 AM, to allow families to visit before work and school commitments begin.
Pandiarajan further recommended extending the evening hours beyond 6:30 PM to give students ample time after school to explore the park. He emphasized the importance of making the facility available during peak hours to maximize its educational impact.
Additionally, he urged corporation schools to organize regular visits to the park, enabling children to use the interactive exhibits to understand scientific theories in a practical and enjoyable manner, thereby fulfilling the park's intended purpose.
Management and Future Coordination
A corporation official clarified that Ankidyne will manage the Thirunagar Science Park until February 2027 and currently determines its operating hours. However, the official assured that the corporation would coordinate with the firm to explore the possibility of advancing the morning opening time to improve public access.
This move aims to align the park's schedule with the needs of the community, ensuring that the significant investment in this educational resource translates into tangible benefits for residents, especially students and families seeking both recreation and learning opportunities.
