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Published 23:09 IST, October 15th 2024

'Lothal Highlights Spirit Of Ingenuity Our Ancestors Possessed': PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi talks about Lothal's maritime history, and pins his tourism hopes to National Maritime Heritage Complex.

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PM Narendra Modi
PM Narendra Modi on National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal. | Image: PTI

After the Union Cabinet approved the construction of a National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat last week, PM Narendra Modi penned a note focused on the maritime history of Lothal, Gujarat .

In his latest Linkedln post, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote," Lothal, the world's oldest dockyard, was once a vibrant melting pot of civilizations, ideas, and, of course, goods. Excavations have pointed to Lothal’s role as an important maritime center. 

"The docks, built thousands of years ago, highlight the spirit of ingenuity our ancestors possessed. Its advanced engineering and urban planning leave modern observers in awe, offering a window into the brilliance of our past."

"Regrettably, in the decades following independence, we allowed many aspects of our history—and many of our historical sites—to fall into neglect, with our rich past fading from memory. However, the last ten years have seen a change in this trend," he said.

'Lothal is the world's oldest dockyard': PM Modi. Image credit: Unsplash

What's expected from the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal?

On the varied possibilities of the upcoming heritage complex, PM Modi said, "The complex will bring ancient Lothal back to life as a mini replica of the dock city. At the heart of this complex will stand an iconic lighthouse museum, soaring 77 meters high set to be among the world's tallest of its kind. Various immersive galleries will make the experience even better."

The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is an initiative by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterway. The construction of this edifice meant to remind every Indian about Lothal's maritime history will be finished in different phases.

Last week, the Union Cabinet granted in-principal approval to begin Phase 1B and Phase 2, making it possible to gather funds through voluntary resources, and contributions. The construction work pertaining to these phases will begin after the necessary funds have been secured.

Updated 23:12 IST, October 15th 2024