Gandhinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Gujarat on September 20. During the trip, he will review the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal in Ahmedabad district. He will also inspect the completed works and hold a detailed review meeting with officials regarding the ongoing projects at the site.

Lothal, once a prominent trading hub of the Indus Valley Civilisation, stands as a symbol of India’s maritime strength and prosperity. The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is being developed at this historic site to showcase the nation’s rich maritime legacy. The project reflects one of the Panch Pran pledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi—preservation of ancient heritage—which is taking shape through the development of NMHC.

National Maritime Heritage Complex to Realise the Vision of ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’

The NMHC will seamlessly blend history, education, research, and entertainment. Lothal, which served as a thriving port and ship-repair centre five thousand years ago, will be revitalised, showcasing its illustrious maritime legacy. Visitors will experience India’s remarkable maritime heritage through state-of-the-art technology.

Heritage Complex to Create Employment Opportunities for Thousands

Built to international standards, NMHC will rank among the world’s finest museums. Beyond attracting visitors, the project will boost the economy of the Bhal region, generate employment for thousands, and open new opportunities for the growth of various cottage industries.

‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ Vision to Be Realised; Maritime Heritage Tourism to Get a Boost

The Heritage Museum at Lothal is being built so that every citizen can easily understand its history. Using cutting-edge technology, the project aims to recreate the grandeur of the ancient era. Lothal, a key city of the Harappan civilisation, is famed for housing the world’s oldest man-made dockyard. The National Maritime Heritage Museum at Lothal will play a vital role in preserving the city’s historical legacy while advancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat by positioning India as a global hub for maritime heritage tourism, research, and policy development.

World’s Tallest Lighthouse Museum to Be Built in the Complex

The National Maritime Heritage Complex will feature the world’s tallest lighthouse museum, standing 77 meters high with an open gallery at 65 meters, offering panoramic views of the entire complex. A nighttime lighting show will add to its attractions. The complex will also include a floating restaurant, a 100-room tent city and resort, and e-car facilities for convenient movement. Parking for 500 electric cars will be provided, and a 66 kV substation is already operational.

14 Galleries to Showcase India’s Maritime Heritage

The NMHC, being developed at an estimated cost of ₹4,500 crore, has been allotted 375 acres of land by the state government. The museum will feature a Lothal Mini Recreation to bring Harappan architecture and lifestyle to life, along with four innovative theme parks: the Memorial Theme Park, Maritime and Navy Theme Park, Climate Theme Park, and Adventure and Amusement Theme Park. The complex will also house 14 galleries showcasing India’s maritime heritage from Harappan times to the present, as well as a Coastal States Pavilion highlighting the maritime traditions of other states and union territories.

Maritime University to Be Established in the National Maritime Heritage Complex

NMHC will emerge not only as a major tourist destination but also as a dynamic centre for learning. A Maritime University will be established within the NMHC, offering specialised maritime degrees and promoting student exchange programmes. The complex will also house a dedicated research institute and the world’s largest underwater-themed open gallery. The museum will guide visitors through India’s remarkable maritime heritage, offering a truly world-class experience. DeshGujarat