Statue of Unity gets a rain forest with glass skywalk and a 600-seat Ekta Cruise
A ₹12 crore, 12-acre rain forest with a glass skywalk is coming up near the Statue of Unity and is expected to be inaugurated on 31 October, while a new ₹16 crore cruise boat will carry up to 600 people on the Narmada.
Two new attractions are being added at Ekta Nagar near the Statue of Unity in Narmada district: a 12-acre rain forest with a glass skywalk, and a large cruise boat for events on the Narmada river, DeshGujarat reported on Saturday, 24 October.
Rain forest with a glass skywalk
The rain forest is being built at a cost of ₹12 crore near New Gora Bridge and the Coconut Tree Garden, about 5 km from the Statue of Unity. It is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31 October, according to the report.
Twenty rain-gun towers will create artificial rain all year, along with waterfalls and bubble fountains. The temperature inside is to be kept between 25°C and 30°C so that visitors can use it in summer. Trees from different Indian states are being planted to recreate a natural forest.
The circular glass skywalk is made of 132 panels of 35 mm toughened laminated glass imported from Germany and shaped in Ahmedabad. It stands 11 metres above the ground on a curved tower 22 metres in diameter. The report described it as a first of its kind in the world; Lok Samna News has not independently verified that claim.
Ekta Cruise on the Narmada
The Ekta Cruise, built at a cost of ₹16 crore, can carry up to 600 people. It covers about 360 square metres and runs on a 400 HP engine, with four diesel generator sets. It has seating, catering, a music system and fire safety equipment.
It is meant for events, celebrations, ceremonies and river tourism along the Narmada riverfront, with income expected from event bookings and catering.
Before you plan a visit
The reports did not give ticket prices, opening hours or the date from which the cruise will take bookings. Check the official Statue of Unity website before you travel.
