The 2001 Earthquake was a catastrophic event for the people of Kutch, one that reshaped the landscape of the region in profound ways. Despite the massive setback, Gujarat, and its people, have demonstrated resilience in turning the adversities faced during this calamity into opportunities. Gujarat in quick span of time rebounded and grew ever stronger from the devastation.
The memorial also consists of the world’s largest Miyawaki Forest with over 4.5 lakh plants, spread across the entire memorial to create a living, breathing monument that also serves as the lungs for the city of Bhuj.
There’s a locally installed 1.04 Megawatt solar power plant that powers the museum, and memorial. The objective of this solar power plant is to have a self-sustainable, renewable green energy that leads the way for all future establishments.
“Breathtaking Views of Bhujia Dungar's Sunrises and Sunsets" - The memorial boasts a Sunpoint, offering stunning panoramas of the city, sunrises, and sunsets from atop Bhujiyo Dungar. This open space provides a unique journey through the lunisolar calendar with intricate carvings and slits.
The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial has 50 check-dam reservoirs that house the name plates of almost 13,000 victims of the 2001 earthquake. Along with this, the reservoirs are carefully planned to recharge the surrounding water levels, giving life to the surrounding forests, and the rocks used in these reservoirs will serve as foundations for new life to grow from within their cracks. Each element of the museum focuses on regeneration, sustainability, and hope for a better future.
