Vastushilpa Sangath LLP was given the task of designing the Smritivan Memorial in Gujarat, India, a tribute to those who lost their lives in the devastating 2001 Gujarat earthquake. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, then Chief Minister of Gujarat, made sure his directive was clear: 'Plant a tree for each victim.' Trees stand for beginning anew, renewal and optimism - a reminder that life carries on. Moreover, creating a landscape encompassing many diverse kinds of trees is symbolic of forming an inclusive community as one finds in a forest. Subsequently, the design team placed small reservoirs all throughout the arid 452-acre site. Gradually this place will become lush greenery as these reservoirs fill up with rainwater. Scroll down to read more on SURFACES REPORTER (SR):
Culture of Resilience
On January 26, 2001, an earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale struck Kutch in Gujarat, causing much destruction. Over 13,000 people were killed and billions were lost due to property damage and infrastructure loss. The psychological damage inflicted upon those affected can be said to be incalculable.
Kutch has experienced many natural disasters over the ages - cyclones, droughts - since the time of the Harappan civilization at least 4500 years ago. This has instilled a 'culture of resilience' into the region. The scarcity of water has been a constant challenge in Kutch; this affects its ecology, economy, culture, social structure and even festivals - all centred around this resource vital for life's sustenance.
Prime Objectives
This project had two distinct objectives: providing a place of remembrance and honour for family members and helping nature regenerate in the arid surroundings. The architects at Vastushilpa Sangath LLP declared that all they needed to do was give nature a bit of help until it took hold and then let it take over.
To that end, they identified local species; worked out water flow paths; analysed soil composition and nutrients; and planned tanks and areas where moisture could gradually percolate into the ground.
Strategically placed reservoirs
The design team crafted a plan for the 452-acre lot, placing strategically placed reservoirs in the first phase of the project which has already been implemented. As nature continues to take its course, and vegetation grows, the experience at Smritivan Memorial will continually evolve; forming a lush ecosystem that wraps around the constructed structures.
Developing into more than a memorial or garden, this living embodiment of Kutch's resilience and hope will be an interactive environment with a sun point atop the hill providing spectacular views and serving as a lune-solar calendar. The notches along its circular ring indicating cultural days serve to remind visitors they are part of a larger cosmic event.
Project Details:
Project Name: Smritivan Earthquake Memorial
Architecture Firm: Vastushilpa Sangath Llp
Location: Bhuj, India
Area: 19100 Sqm
Year: 2023
Photography: Vinay Panjwani
Source: https://www.sangath.org/
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