The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat. The project is a significant step towards preserving and showcasing India’s rich maritime heritage, which dates back over 4,500 years. The NMHC is going to be a world-class museum that will boost tourism, generate employment, and promote India’s cultural and maritime heritage.
National Maritime Heritage Complex
- It is being built on about 400 acres of land at Lothal, Gujarat.
- It is being developed by the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways under the Sagarmala Project in collaboration with the Government of Gujarat.
- It is being developed as an international tourist destination
- India’s maritime heritage from ancient to modern times will be showcased here
Lothal
- It is located in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat
- Lothal is the only known port city of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- It is located on the banks of the Bhogava River
- Bhogava River is a tributary of the Sabarmati River.
- In Gujarati language, Lothal means ‘mound of the dead’.
- It was discovered by SR Rao in the year 1952
- Lothal was divided into two parts – the citadel or upper city and the lower city.
- It was an important center of the bead industry
- Gold grains, four seals of alabaster, bangles made of shell and copper and a clay-coated jar have been found from a house here.
- Factories of artisans working on shells and coppersmiths have also been found.
- Examples of three paired tombs have also been found here. Also, evidence of male and female burials has also been found.
Phases of the project
The project is divided into two main phases
- Phase 1A: Currently under construction, with more than 60% physical progress. It is planned to be completed by 2025.
- Phase 1B and Phase 2: Recently approved by the Union Cabinet.
Phase-wise implementation
- In Phase 1A, the construction process is going on under EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) mode. The master plan of NMHC has been prepared by renowned architecture firm M/s Architect Hafeez Contractor, and the construction work has been assigned to Tata Projects Limited.
- Phase 1B involves the construction of a lighthouse museum, which will be funded by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL). This phase will develop several elements such as thematic exhibitions, research centres, and galleries related to maritime history.
- Phase 2 will focus on further development through land sub-lease or public-private partnership (PPP). It aims to establish NMHC as a world-class heritage museum attracting global tourists, researchers, and maritime enthusiasts.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
- The National Maritime Heritage Complex project is expected to create 22,000 jobs, including 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect jobs. These jobs will cover various roles in construction, tourism, research, operations, and management of the complex.
- The project aims to boost the local economy, particularly benefiting local communities, businesses, and educational institutions. The development will also support environmental and conservation groups, making it a hub of economic and cultural activity in the area.