Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was one of the tallest leaders of our freedom struggle. He was instrumental in unifying India as one country by integrating nearly 550 princely states. So the 182 meter tall Statue of Unity is a tribute to the Iron Man of India which is being built at the Sadhu-Bet Island, approximately 3.5 km south of Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadia in the Narmada district of Gujarat. This inspiring memorial site has a number of educational and entertainment components. The total project cost is estimated to be £298.9 million and will be completed in four years.
The Statue of Unity is being designed as a true representation of Sardar Patel, wearing characteristic garments, in a walking stance. Rich bronze cladding on the Statue that will give it a fine, aesthetically pleasing look. The three-level base of the Statue - exhibition floor, mezzanine and roof - will contain a Memorial Garden and a large continuous museum/exhibition hall, comprising exhibits that focus on the life and contributions of Sardar Patel. The observation deck, situated at a height of around 500 ft from river bed, will accommodate up to 200 people at a time. It will provide visitors a panoramic view, enabling them to see the beautiful Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges. The statue and surrounding area will be accessed by special boats to avoid vehicular traffic and pollution.
Museum and audio-visual department
The Project will also include a museum and audio-visual department depicting the life and times of Sardar Patel. A hotel is also being built with 3-star facility. A laser light and sound show on the Sardar's efforts on the unification of India will be one of the highlights. A research centre dedicated to the subjects close to Sardar Patel’s heart like good governance and agriculture development will also be there.
Modi's call to countrymen
In October 2010 Narendra Modi unveiled the plan to build the statue on his completion of 10 years in office as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He has invited all countrymen to become a part of the movement to build the Statue. Modi urged every village to contribute a piece (tool) of iron for this project. The project is built on a PPP model with most of the money raised by private contribution. The government of Gujarat has allocated £10 million in the 2012-13 budget and £50 million in the 2014-15 budget. In the union budget $30 million have been allocated. Modi has appealed to Indians in India as well as those settled abroad to contribute generously to the mega project
Work in progress
Much of the foundation work has been completed while construction of a bund wall around Sadhu Bet is in progress. A Bailey bridge is being constructed to facilitate movement of men, material and equipment for the construction during the rainy season. A team of engineers is visiting bronze casting and design factories to study the latest technology, so that the same can be applied during the construction of the statue.
