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Context

• The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi hailed the inclusion of Smritivan at Kutch, a tribute to those lost in the tragic Earthquake of 2001, in the World Selection for the Prix Versailles Museums 2024.
• Announced each year at UNESCO since 2015, the Prix Versailles is a series of architectural competitions that shine a light on the finest contemporary projects worldwide.

Smritivan Earthquake Memorial and Museum

History

• The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial and Museum was conceptualized in 2004 by the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority as a tribute to the victims of the devastating 2001 Gujarat earthquake.
• Designed by the renowned architectural firm Vastu-Shilpa Consultants, the project aimed to commemorate the resilience of the people of Kutch and their spirit in overcoming adversity.
• The museum's exhibition design and curation were meticulously handled by Design Factory India, ensuring a comprehensive and impactful visitor experience.
• The culmination of these efforts resulted in the grand inauguration of the memorial and museum on 28 August 2022, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi officiating the ceremony.

Features

• Spanning 470 acres, the memorial park stands as a serene tribute to the thousands who lost their lives in the earthquake. Each of the over 13,000 trees planted within the park serves as a living memorial to an individual victim, symbolizing remembrance and renewal.
• Beyond its symbolic significance, the park boasts practical amenities such as 50 check dams, providing both environmental sustainability and flood prevention measures. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views from the sunset point and explore the park through its 8 km-long pathways.
• Additionally, the memorial park contributes to renewable energy efforts with a 1 MW solar power plant, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Adequate parking space for 3,000 people ensures accessibility for visitors from near and far.
• The museum, covering an expansive area of 11,500 square meters, is divided into seven thematic blocks, each offering a unique perspective on the earthquake and its aftermath:
• Rebirth: Traces the evolution of Earth, contextualizing the seismic event within geological history.
• Rediscover: Explores the topography and natural disaster risks specific to the Gujarat region, fostering awareness and preparedness.
• Restore: Immersive galleries depict the immediate aftermath of the 2001 earthquake and the monumental relief efforts undertaken in its wake.
• Rebuild: Showcases the resilience and determination of communities in rebuilding their lives and infrastructure post-disaster.
• Rethink: Provides insights into disaster preparedness strategies, encouraging proactive measures and adaptive responses.
• Relive: Offers visitors a visceral experience through a state-of-the-art 5D earthquake simulator, bringing the seismic event to life.
• Renew: Honors the memory of the earthquake victims with a solemn memorial space, inviting reflection and remembrance.

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