Iron for the Iron man: Gujarat minister arrives city on collection drive

Iron for the Iron man: Gujarat minister arrives city on collection drive

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Dec 7, 2013: Gujarat Minister for Energy Saurabhbhai Patel said that World’s largest statue, the "Statue of Unity" of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel known as the ‘Iron Man’ will be built on the banks of River Narmada in Gujarat, under the aegis of ’The SardarVallabhbhai Patel Ekta Trust. 

Speaking at the press meet held at Hotel Ocean Pearl on Dec 7, Saturday, he said that as part of the nation-wide ‘Statue of Unity’ campaign, a delegation from Gujarat has arrived city to promote the project and urge the participation of people in the project.

 

 

 

He also said that the world’s tallest 182 meter statue ‘Statue of Unity’ will be constructed by the inspiration of Chief Minister Narendra Modi at Sadhubet, near Sardar Sarovar Dam. CM Modi laid the foundation stone of statue on October 31, the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

As part of this campaign, the old farming iron tools will be collected from all the villages across India, and will be used to construct the statue after melting them, said Minister.

Apart from it, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust will also conduct the various programmes across the country to create awareness about the project and iron collection drive. The campaign is a non-political movement, he said.

A unique marathon, ‘Run for Unity’ will be at 565 places in the country on December 15, the death anniversary of Sardar Patel. An essay competition on India’s unity and integrity will be organized in 1.67 lakh secondary school of the village and first three winners will be given prizes at district and state level.

The campaign will also collect signed letter by the villagers describing anticipation for good governance.

The photos of all the participating representatives of every Gram Panchayath will be collected in this programme and they will be displayed at the museum near to the statue. 

In Karnataka, the marathon will be held in 28 towns and cities including Bangalore, Mysore, Hubli-Dharwad, Mangalore and Belgaum.

Speaking on the technical and other details, Minister said that for the construction of the statue, most advanced and long-lastingly efficient designs and technology will be used and will be completed in 4-5 years. The cost for the project is yet to be finalized.

Advanced elevator facility to enjoy the wonderful scenery of Narmada Dam from 450 ft high spectator gallery will be constructed.

Made up of structural steel framework, the statue can sustain during adverse weather conditions and will be resistant to heavy winds and earthquake. Damper and perforated penal will be used to construct this statue in order to resist the wind load under PPP model.

Also virtual tour explaining an array of aspects of Sardar Sarovar Yojana and research and developmental activities including subjects like water management and scheduled tribe upliftment programmes will be held. Ferry service will be made available to visit "Statue of Unity" for all the visitors.

R K Sugur, IFS-Dy Municipal Commissioner of Baroda, MLA Varshaben Doshi, MLA Nagarji Thakur, Mayor of Baroda Dilipbhai Patel, MLA Dineshbhai Patel, MLA Vaghjibhai Patel and others were present at the press meets.