Master plan and land allotment

The finalisation of the master plan marks a significant milestone in the development of Ekatma Dham. The comprehensive plan is designed to balance the needs of the project with the surrounding environment, ensuring the harmonious integration of the structure with the natural landscape.

The allotment of land at Omkareshwar is a crucial first step in the execution of the project. The selection of the location has been carefully considered to provide visitors with a serene and tranquil atmosphere that facilitates introspection and contemplation. The site's strategic positioning allows for easy access while maintaining a sense of seclusion, providing an ideal setting for the objectives of the project. With the land acquisition completed, the project moves forward into the next phases of development, bringing it one step closer to becoming a reality.

Surface dressing

The surface dressing of the Ekatma Dham site is a crucial step in creating a smooth and stable foundation for the project. This process involved the application of multiple layers of material to the surface to enhance its durability and stability. The surface dressing will ensure that the site is well- prepared to withstand the weight and impact of the structures that will be built on it.

In addition to the surface dressing, the team responsible for the project has taken steps to preserve the cultural heritage of the site. The deities of existing temples within the project area have been carefully and respectfully relocated to the Rajarajeshwari temple. This process involved the transportation of the deities with the utmost care and attention to ensure their safety and preservation.

The project team has also undertaken an ambitious reforestation effort at the site. Over 2,400 trees have been planted in strategic locations to provide shade, improve air quality and contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the site. This effort demonstrates the team's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

A new submerged bridge

The construction of a submerged bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering that has been achieved at the Ekatma Dham project site. This bridge has been designed to provide a safe and stable pathway for construction vehicles and equipment to move across the river without disturbing the natural flow of the Narmada River or impacting the Narmada Parikrama boats.

The submerged bridge has been meticulously planned and constructed to ensure its durability and safety. It is an impressive example of the project team's commitment to innovation and problem-solving in the face of unique challenges.

In addition to the construction of the submerged bridge, the Public Works Department has executed the development of an approach road that connects the bridge to the museum site. This road has been carefully designed to provide a smooth and safe journey for construction vehicles and equipment, further enhancing the efficiency of the construction process.

Art of statue-making

The art of statue-making is a process that involves intricate and detailed planning, much like the construction of a high-rise building. In fact, the construction of statues requires similar tolerances to those of the curtain wall system used in buildings. Due to their size, statues cannot be cast as a single piece and must be broken down into manageable components.

Engineers must take into account various factors such as the stresses and strains on the cladding, thermal expansion and contraction, compression of the columns, and the weight of the sculpture itself, which requires a solid foundation. With modern technology, the construction of statues has been revolutionised, but the fundamental techniques remain the same.

The creation of a statue begins with the artist's vision, which is then scaled down to create smaller versions of the intended sculpture. This smaller version is then used to break down the statue into manageable components that can be produced and shipped to the site for assembly. The use of computer modelling optimises the design process and ensures that the statue will meet all required specifications. Ultimately, the construction of a statue is a collaborative effort between artists, engineers, and skilled craftsmen who work together to bring to life these magnificent works of art that stand the test of time.

The Ekatma Dham project has reached an exciting stage in its construction, with the preparation of the foundation pit and the establishment of a construction yard on site. This represents a significant milestone in the project's development, as it lays the groundwork for the construction of the statue and the pedestal.

The foundation pit has been carefully prepared to ensure that it is stable and secure. This involved the excavation of a large area of soil and the installation of support structures to prevent any collapse or shifting of the pit during construction. The setting up of a construction yard on site provides a central location for the storage of construction materials and equipment, making it easier for workers to access what they need to complete their tasks.

Once the foundation pit and construction yard were established, the next step was the casting of the foundation and pedestal for the statue. This is a complex process that requires precise engineering and expert craftsmanship. The casting of the foundation involved pouring a large amount of concrete into the pit, which then sets and hardens to create a strong and stable base for the statue.

The casting of the pedestal is another significant achievement, with the construction team having completed the pedestal up to 30 ft. This involved the installation of support structures and the pouring of concrete to create a sturdy base that can support the weight of the statue. As construction continues, the pedestal will continue to rise, taking shape and form as the statue gradually emerges from the ground.