The idea of setting up the monument was conceived in 1980.
Chief minister Prithviraj Chavan may have announced that the controversial Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj memorial on the Arabian Sea would be approved within a year, but given the scope of the project, city residents may still have a long wait before the structure is actually erected.
The idea of setting up the monument was conceived in 1980. Three years ago, the state government had invited proposals for the design from across the globe, and three firms were shortlisted, including city-based Team One Architects. Until today, however, the government has not signed an agreement with the architect. The estimated cost of this project is Rs500 crore.
“We have been studying world-famous structures - the Statue of Liberty in New York and Sydney’s Opera House. Various experts from the world over are advising us. This international-standard monument will be sprawled over 10 acres of an artificially created island on the sea,” said a senior government official.
It will be accessible from all prominent locations, including Girgaum Chowpatty, Marine Drive, Juhu Beach, Gateway of India, Navi Mumbai and even from Alibaug, connected by ferry and chopper services.
The official said that the inside of the monument would feature several murals and other artefacts.
“The entire Island will look like a fort that reminiscent of medieval times. At the end of every day, a special slide show will depict various phases of the Maratha king’s life. Other facilities such as a library and a food court will also be present,” he said.
The government is also looking into the possible threat of tsunamis and terrorist attacks.
“The safety of the monument is our topmost priority. Even the high tension wires led by Tata are quite distant from the Island. In order to drain out excessive rainfall on the island, an effective sewerage system will be developed,” said another official.
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