Gandhinagar, Gujarat – On September 5, 2023, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel chaired the sixth meeting of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Unity Trust in Gandhinagar. This meeting focused on accelerating the development of facilities for tourists visiting the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, located in the Unity District.
The trust was established by the Gujarat government under the Society Registration Act of 1860 and the Bombay Public Trust Act of 1950. Its primary aim is to create a national memorial in honor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and to engage in various public welfare activities in his memory.
During the meeting, discussions were held on increasing tourist attractions in the Statue of Unity area. Plans include creating trekking trails, walkways, and a hospitality district near the statue. Additionally, there are plans to install a replica of the Sardar Sarovar Dam near the entrance.
Amit Arora, the Chief Executive Officer of the Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Authority, presented detailed reports on ongoing tourism development projects and the agenda for the meeting. The trust’s governing body consists of ten members, including the Chief Secretary and the chairman of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam. Other senior secretaries from the Finance, Urban Development, Forest and Environment, and Roads and Buildings departments are also part of this body.
The meeting also addressed plans to develop in-house capacity for the management and maintenance of the Statue of Unity in the coming days. The Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi, along with other senior officials, actively participated in the discussions.
The Statue of Unity, inaugurated in 2018, attracts millions of visitors each year. Its location near the Sardar Sarovar Dam has made it a significant tourist spot. The trust aims to enhance visitor experiences by improving infrastructure and adding more attractions.
Bhupendra Patel has been the Chief Minister of Gujarat since September 2021. Under his leadership, the state has seen various development initiatives and policies aimed at boosting tourism and infrastructure, contributing to Gujarat’s growth as a major tourist destination.
As the meeting concluded, there was a sense of optimism about the future developments planned for the Statue of Unity area. The governing body is committed to making this site a premier location for both domestic and international tourists, ensuring that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s legacy is honored and celebrated.