The world will be watching, literally. As investors from across the world pour into Ahmedabad on January 12 for the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors’ Summit, a huge globe will tower over the ceremonies at Gujarat Science City here, venue for the meet.
This unique structure called Planet Earth is a steel and concrete dome 54 m in diameter and 27 m in height that lets you go through natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanoes and landslides with a simulated experience. The project began in October 2004 and while the construction work is over, the exhibits are to be opened for public soon.
You could soon experience the whole world shaking beneath your feet as if in a real-life earthquake, then get trapped in the ferocity of giant tsunami waves and later battle with the heat of volcanic eruptions with molten lava flowing out. But you come out safe and sound.
“People should know more about the planet we live in a more realistic manner,” says Saroj Ghosh, advisor to Science City and former director general of National Council of Science Museum.
“The different types of walking and hands-on exhibits on natural disasters, resources of planet Earth, among others, have never showcased in the country so far,” adds Ghosh.
The three-tier balcony inside the dome will take visitors into the “interiors” of earth a simulated elevator ride to the depths of earth. The section on atmosphere will have animated exhibits showing the earth’s atmosphere in different layers.
“The globe, spread over 6,600 square metre, was first designed separately and then brought together to give it a dome-structure. Along with the water body along the globe, it covers 9,000 sq m area,” says Ghosh.
Asian Development Bank, Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority and the government of Gujarat have funded the Rs 32 crore project.
“Planet Earth will showcase the exquisite beauty and science of the planet we live in. The pavilion will educate people on the natural resources and the importance of conservation,” says DB Mehta, executive director of Science City.
ref: thetimesofindia
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