Gandhinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will review the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) being developed at a cost of Rs 4,500 crore in Lothal, Ahmedabad district, on Saturday.
According to officials, he will inspect the work completed so far and hold a detailed review meeting with officials regarding ongoing projects at the site. Lothal, once a major trading center of the Indus Valley Civilization, is a symbol of India’s maritime power and prosperity.
The National Maritime Heritage Complex is being developed at this historic site to showcase the country’s rich maritime heritage. This project embodies one of the “five vital forces” pledged by the Prime Minister. The National Maritime Heritage Complex will realize the dream of “Development as well as Heritage.”
The NMHC will be a seamless blend of history, education, research, and entertainment. Lothal, which was a thriving port and ship-repair center 5,000 years ago, will be revived and its magnificent maritime heritage will be showcased.
Officials stated that visitors will be able to experience India’s remarkable maritime heritage through state-of-the-art technology.
The Heritage Complex will create employment opportunities for thousands of people.
Builded to international standards, the NMHC will rank among the world’s finest museums. In addition to attracting tourists, the project will boost the economy of the Bhal region, generating employment for thousands of people and opening up new opportunities for the development of various cottage industries.
Using state-of-the-art technology, the project aims to recreate the grandeur of ancient times. Lothal, a major city of the Harappan civilization, is famous for having the oldest man-made dock. This museum will be an important initiative towards preserving the city’s historical heritage.
The World’s Tallest Lighthouse Museum to Be Built on the Complex
The National Maritime Heritage Complex will house the world’s tallest lighthouse museum, rising 77 meters high and featuring an open-air gallery at 65 meters. This will provide visitors with a panoramic view of the entire complex.
Additionally, a nighttime lighting show will enhance its attractions. The complex will include a floating restaurant, a 100-room tent city and resort, and e-car facilities for convenient commuting to the museum. Parking for 500 electric cars will be provided, and a 66 kV substation is already operational.
14 Galleries to Showcase India’s Maritime Heritage
The state government has allocated 375 acres of land for the complex. The museum will feature a Lothal mini-entertainment to bring Harappan architecture and lifestyle to life. It will also feature four innovative theme parks: a Memorial Theme Park, a Marine and Naval Theme Park, a Climate Theme Park, and an Adventure and Entertainment Theme Park.
The complex will also feature 14 galleries showcasing India’s maritime heritage from the Harappan period to the present. Additionally, there will be a Coastal State Pavilion showcasing the maritime traditions of other states and union territories.
A Maritime University will be established within the National Maritime Heritage Complex.
The NMHC will emerge not only as a major tourist destination but also as a dynamic center of education.
A Maritime University will be established within the NMHC, offering specialized maritime degrees in a single location and promoting student exchange programs. The complex will also feature a dedicated research institute and the world’s largest underwater-themed open-air gallery.
