New Parliament House

New Parliament House:
An Architectural and Engineering Marvel

India's Parliament House has been the cornerstone of India's democracy since its inception. The present Parliament House was constructed during the British era, has been in use for nearly a century. However, with India's growing population and technological advancements, the need for a new and modern Parliament House has become imperative. The new Parliament House in India, which is expected to be completed in 2022, is an architectural and engineering marvel. This article explores the design, architecture, and engineering of the new Parliament House.

Introduction

The new Parliament House in India is an ambitious project, aimed at providing a modern
and technologically advanced facility to accommodate India's growing population
and evolving democratic institutions. The project has been undertaken by the
Central Public Works Department (CPWD), and the design has been conceptualized
by renowned architect Bimal Patel.

The new Parliament House in India has been designed by renowned architect Bimal Patel. Patel is the founder and principal architect of HCP Design, Planning and Management, a leading architecture and planning firm based in Ahmedabad, India. He has won several awards for his work, including the prestigious 'Architect of the Year' award at the 2016 Indian Architect and Builder Awards.

History of the Indian Parliament House

The current Parliament House was designed by Edwin Lutyens, a British architect, during the
British rule in India. Construction on the building commenced in 1921 and concluded in 1927, after which it was inaugurated by Lord Irwin, the Governor-General of India at the time.
building commenced in 1921 and concluded in 1927, after which it was
inaugurated by Lord Irwin, the Governor-General of India at the time.
The current Parliament House has served the Indian democracy for nearly a
century, but with the growing population and the need for advanced technology,
a new Parliament House has become imperative.

Need for a New Parliament House

The need for a new Parliament House is due to various reasons. Firstly, the current
Parliament House has become overcrowded, and there is no scope for expansion.
Secondly, the building is not equipped with modern technology and facilities
required for a modern parliament. Thirdly, the current building is not
earthquake-proof, and given India's susceptibility to earthquakes, a new
building with state-of-the-art seismic design is required.

The Architecture of the New Parliament House

The Concept
The new Parliament House is designed in the shape of a diamond, representing the
diamond shape of the Indian map. The upcoming Parliament building in India will consist of four floors and cover a vast area of 64,500 square meters. It will be able to accommodate 1,224 members of Parliament, with separate chambers for the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Parliament building in India will consist of four floors and cover a vast area
of 64,500 square meters. It will be able to accommodate 1,224 members of
parliament, with separate chambers for the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

The Dome
The most striking feature of the new Parliament House is the dome, which is 34 meters in
diameter and is made of bronze. The dome has been inspired by the Ashoka
Chakra, and it will have the Indian national emblem placed at the top. The dome
will be illuminated at night, making it visible from afar.

The Emblem
The new Parliament House in India will have the national emblem of India placed on top of the building. The national emblem, also known as the State Emblem of India, is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which was originally erected by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The national emblem of India is comprised of four lions standing back to back, which symbolize significant traits such as power, courage, pride, and confidence. The lions are mounted on a circular abacus, which is inscribed with the motto "Satyameva Jayate" (truth alone triumphs) in Devanagari script. The emblem will be placed atop the dome of the new Parliament building, making it a prominent feature of the building's design.
The emblem is made of bronze and stands at a height of 6.5 metres, weighing 9,500 kg. In order to support its weight, a supporting steel structure weighing 6,500 kg was created. The National Emblem is a significant feature of the building's design and will be visible from a distance, symbolising the nation's strength and unity. The unveiling of the emblem marks a major milestone in the construction of the new Parliament House, which is set to become an engineering and architectural marvel upon completion.

The Interior Design
The new Parliament House in India aims to capture the essence and diversity of the
country's culture at the grassroots level, in order to make every Indian feel
associated with it. The interiors of the building will showcase various aspects
of Indian culture, including Vedas, Yoga, Upanishads, Sufi and folk culture,
and Kabirpath. The themes of the interiors will revolve around three national
symbols, namely the lotus, peacock and banyan tree. The Lok Sabha chamber in the upcoming Parliament building will feature a design theme inspired by the national bird of India, the peacock. On the other hand, the Rajya Sabha chamber will be adorned with design elements that showcase the national flower of India, the lotus. A design theme inspired by the national bird of India, the peacock. On theother hand, the Rajya Sabha chamber will be adorned with design elements that showcase the national flower of India, the lotus. The central courtyard of the building will feature the national tree banyan as its theme.The National Emblem will crown the new Parliament building, adding to itsgrandeur.

The interiors of the building will also feature fresco paintings on the ceilings, similar to those in the Rashtrapati Bhawan, and carpets with traditional designs, instead of the current single-colour carpets. The walls of thebuilding will have shlokas inscribed on them, further emphasising India's rich cultural heritage. The artworks that will decorate the premises are being sourced, monitored and installed by a panel consisting of academicians,historians, artists, experts and officials from the Culture and Urban Development Ministries. Overall, the new Parliament House is set to become a representation of India's diverse culture and a symbol of national pride.

The Engineering Marvel of the New Parliament House

Structural Design
The structural design of the new Parliament House is a testament to modern engineering techniques. The building has been designed to withstand earthquakes of magnitude 8 on the Richter scale, which is a crucial factor given India's seismic activity. The building's structural design comprises a steel frame that is capable of absorbing earthquake-induced vibrations, ensuring the safety ofthe occupants.In addition to the steel frame, the building also has an innovative base isolation system.The base isolation system involves placing the building on flexible bearings,which isolate the building from ground movements during an earthquake. The isolation system helps in reducing the seismic forces acting on the building,
thus increasing the building's seismic resistance.Another innovative feature of the building's structural design is the use of vertical seismic dampers. The dampers are placed at regular intervals on the building's structure, and they act as shock absorbers during an earthquake, reducing the building's vibration.The building's structural design also takes into consideration the long-term durability of the structure. The building has been designed to have a life span
of 150 years, and the materials used in the construction are of the highest quality to ensure the building's longevity.

Sustainable Design
The new Parliament House has also been designed with sustainability in mind. The
building's design includes features such as rainwater harvesting, waste management, and energy-efficient systems. The building will have a solar power generation capacity of 2 MW, which will provide a significant portion of the building's energy requirements. The building's sustainable design also includes a green roof, which will help in reducing the building's carbon footprint. The green roof will be covered with vegetation, which will help in reducing the building's heat absorption, thus reducing the need for air conditioning. The building's sustainable design also includes the use of recycled materials in the construction. The building's facade will be made of recycled copper, which is not only environmentally friendly but also adds to the building's aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion
The new Parliament House in India is a symbol of India's progress and modernity. The
building's design and architecture represent India's rich cultural heritage while incorporating modern technology and sustainability. The building's structural design and engineering marvel make it a safe and durable facility, while the sustainable design ensures that the building is environmentally responsible. The new Parliament House is not just a building, but a reflection of India's democratic values and aspirations.

 

Mundeshwari Temple

 

The Oldest Temple in India

Uncovering the Rich History and Cultural Significance

 

India, being one of the oldest civilizations in the world, is home to countless religious and cultural landmarks. One such landmark that stands out from the rest is the oldest temple in India. The temple holds immense historical, cultural, and religious significance, attracting millions of devotees and tourists from around the world. In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the oldest temple in India, and its impact on Indian culture.

Mundeshwari Temple

The oldest temple in India is the Mundeshwari Temple, located in Kaimur district of Bihar. It is believed to be the oldest functional temple in India, with its origins dating back to the 2nd century BC. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is built in the Nagara style of architecture.

History of the Oldest Temple in India

The Mundeshwari Temple is believed to have been built during the rule of the Mauryan Empire, under the patronage of King Ashoka. The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, the most significant of which was during the Gupta period.

During the Islamic invasions of India, the temple was destroyed and lay in ruins for several years. It was only in the 20th century that the temple was rediscovered and restored to its former glory.

Architecture of the Oldest Temple in India

The Mundeshwari Temple is an excellent example of ancient Indian temple architecture. It is built in the Nagara style, which is characterized by a curved tower (shikhara) and a square sanctum (garbhagriha). The temple is made of stone and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.

Style and Design

The temple is built on a raised platform, and its entrance is adorned with a beautiful torana (ornamental arch). The sanctum is surrounded by a circumambulatory path (pradakshina path), which is decorated with carvings of various deities and mythological scenes.

Sculptures and Carvings

The temple is adorned with beautiful sculptures and carvings that depict various Hindu gods and goddesses. The carvings on the temple walls depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Religious Significance of the Oldest Temple in India

The Mundeshwari Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered to be one of the holiest places of worship for Hindus. It is believed that worshipping at the temple helps devotees attain Moksha (salvation) and leads to the fulfillment of their desires.

Cultural Significance of the Oldest Temple in India

The Mundeshwari Temple is not only a place of religious significance but also holds immense cultural value. It is an excellent example of ancient Indian temple architecture and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India.

Importance of the oldest temple in India

The Mundeshwari Temple holds immense importance in Indian culture and society. It is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage. The temple's ancient architecture and intricate carvings attract tourists and historians from around the world, making it a popular destination for those interested in India's history and culture.

The temple's religious significance is also undeniable, as it is considered one of the holiest places of worship for Hindus. Devotees believe that worshipping at the temple brings them closer to Lord Shiva and helps them attain salvation.

Moreover, the temple has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the ancient Indian culture and traditions. The festivals celebrated at the temple are a testament to India's diverse culture and heritage, attracting devotees and tourists from all over the country.

Famous Festivals Celebrated in the Oldest Temple in India

The Mundeshwari Temple, the oldest temple in India, is renowned for its magnificent architecture and religious significance. However, the temple is also famous for the various festivals celebrated throughout the year, which attract a large number of devotees and tourists.

Mahashivratri: This festival, which falls in the month of February, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of the temple. On this day, devotees fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva to seek his blessings.

Navaratri: This festival is celebrated twice a year, once in the month of April and then in October. It marks the victory of good over evil and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Devotees offer prayers and perform puja during the nine-day festival.

Diwali: The festival of lights is celebrated with great fervour at the Mundeshwari Temple. The temple is decorated with lights and diyas, and devotees offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

Holi: This colourful festival, which falls in March, is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the temple. Devotees throw coloured powder and water at each other and offer sweets to the presiding deity.

Dussehra: This festival is celebrated in the month of October and is dedicated to Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana. A grand procession is carried out, and the effigy of Ravana is burnt to mark the occasion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mundeshwari Temple in India is a remarkable symbol of the country's rich cultural and religious heritage. Its ancient architecture and intricate carvings are a testament to India's glorious past, while the festivals celebrated here showcase the country's vibrant and diverse culture.

The temple is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. Its religious significance and cultural value continue to inspire and fascinate people from different walks of life.

As one of the oldest temples in India, the Mundeshwari Temple has played a significant role in preserving and promoting the ancient Indian culture and traditions. It stands as a beacon of hope and spirituality, offering solace and comfort to millions of devotees who visit the temple every year.

In a world that is rapidly changing, the Mundeshwari Temple remains a timeless symbol of India's cultural and spiritual legacy, and it is undoubtedly one of the country's most treasured landmarks.

 

 

River Front Development

 

River Front Development, Engineering Marvel

River front development is a process that involves the use of land alongside a river to improve the quality of life of the surrounding communities. This process typically involves the creation of parks, walkways, and other public spaces that provide residents with access to the river, while also preserving the natural habitat of the river and the surrounding environment.

Engineering plays a crucial role in the success of river front development projects. It involves the application of scientific principles and technical knowledge to design and construct safe and sustainable structures and infrastructure that can withstand the dynamic forces of a river and its surroundings. In this article, we will explore the key engineering considerations that are essential to the success of river front development projects.

1. Understanding the Hydrology

Hydrology plays a vital role in the development of river fronts. It is essential to understand the hydrological processes to ensure that riverfront development is sustainable and does not adversely affect the environment. In this article, we will discuss the importance of hydrology in riverfront development and how it can be used to create sustainable riverfronts.

Understanding River Hydrology

Rivers are a part of the hydrological cycle and are influenced by various factors such as rainfall, evaporation, runoff, groundwater flow, and surface water flow. River hydrology refers to the study of these factors and how they affect the river's flow, water quality, and ecosystem.

Importance of Hydrology in Riverfront Development

Hydrology is essential in riverfront development for several reasons:

1.     Understanding the river's natural flow - By understanding the river's natural flow, we can determine the river's capacity to handle floods and prevent erosion. This information is crucial in planning and designing riverfront development projects.

2.     Managing water resources - Hydrology helps us manage water resources by providing information about the availability, quality, and movement of water in the river.

3.     Designing sustainable riverfronts - By understanding the hydrology of the river, we can design sustainable riverfronts that do not adversely affect the environment.

4.     Flood control - Hydrology helps us understand the causes of floods and how to prevent or mitigate their effects on the riverfront.

5.     Protecting aquatic ecosystems - Hydrology provides information on the water quality and flow of the river, which is essential in protecting aquatic ecosystems and their habitats.

Hydrological Processes in Riverfront Development

Several hydrological processes play a significant role in riverfront development:

1.     River flow - Understanding the natural flow of the river is crucial in designing riverfront projects that are sustainable and do not adversely affect the environment.

2.     Flood control - Hydrology helps us understand the causes of floods and how to design riverfront projects that can mitigate the effects of floods.

3.     Water quality - Hydrology provides information on the water quality of the river, which is essential in protecting aquatic ecosystems and ensuring that the riverfront development does not negatively impact the environment.

4.     Groundwater flow - Understanding the groundwater flow of the river is crucial in designing riverfront projects that are sustainable and do not adversely affect the environment.

2. Designing Riverbank Protection

Riverbank protection is a crucial aspect of riverfront development. It is essential to design riverbank protection systems that are effective, environmentally friendly, and sustainable. In this article, we will discuss the importance of designing riverbank protection systems and the factors that should be considered during the design process.

Importance of Designing Riverbank Protection Systems

Riverbank protection systems are designed to prevent erosion and protect the riverbank from damage due to flooding. These systems are essential in riverfront development for several reasons:

1.     Preventing bank erosion - Riverbank protection systems prevent bank erosion, which can lead to land loss and damage to nearby infrastructure.

2.     Maintaining water quality - Riverbank protection systems can help maintain the water quality of the river by preventing sedimentation and runoff.

3.     Protecting aquatic habitats - Riverbank protection systems can protect aquatic habitats by preventing erosion and maintaining stable water levels.

4.     Enhancing aesthetics - Riverbank protection systems can enhance the aesthetics of the riverfront by providing a visually appealing structure.

Factors to Consider During Designing Riverbank Protection Systems

Several factors should be considered when designing riverbank protection systems:

1.     Bank stability - The stability of the riverbank should be evaluated to determine the type of protection system that is required.

2.     Soil properties - The soil properties of the riverbank should be evaluated to determine the type of protection system that is suitable.

3.     Water levels - The water levels of the river should be evaluated to determine the height of the protection system.

4.     Flood control - The protection system should be designed to handle floods and prevent damage to the riverbank.

5.     Environmentally friendly - The protection system should be designed to minimize the impact on the environment and protect aquatic habitats.

Types of Riverbank Protection Systems

Several types of riverbank protection systems are commonly used in riverfront development:

1.     Riprap - Riprap is a layer of large rocks placed on the riverbank to prevent erosion. It is a simple and effective protection system that is environmentally friendly.

2.     Gabions - Gabions are wire mesh baskets filled with rocks that are placed on the riverbank to prevent erosion. They are a cost-effective and durable protection system.

3.     Vegetation - Vegetation can be used to stabilize the riverbank and prevent erosion. It is a natural and environmentally friendly protection system.

4.     Concrete walls - Concrete walls can be used to protect the riverbank from erosion and flooding. They are a durable protection system that can be designed to enhance the aesthetics of the riverfront.

3. Creating Safe Access Points

Creating safe and reliable access points to the river is another critical consideration in river front development projects. Engineers must design and construct bridges, jetties, and other structures that provide safe access to the river for pedestrians and vehicles. These structures must be designed to withstand the forces of the river and be constructed using durable and sustainable materials.

4. Managing Flood Risk

Flood risk management is a critical consideration in river front development projects. Engineers must design and construct infrastructure and structures that can withstand flooding and protect the surrounding communities. This involves the use of flood protection measures such as levees, flood walls, and flood gates, as well as the design of buildings and other structures that can withstand flooding.

5. Sustainable Design

Sustainable design is becoming an increasingly important consideration in river front development projects. Engineers must design and construct infrastructure and structures that are environmentally sustainable and can withstand the effects of climate change. This involves the use of sustainable materials, the implementation of green infrastructure, and the adoption of practices that promote the conservation of natural resources.

Conclusion

The riverfront development is an essential aspect of improving the quality of life for communities living near rivers. The successful implementation of such projects requires careful consideration of the engineering principles that are involved in designing and constructing safe and sustainable structures and infrastructure. Understanding the hydrology, designing riverbank protection, creating safe access points, and designing sustainable structures and infrastructure are key considerations that must be taken into account in riverfront development projects. By implementing these principles, riverfront developments can enhance the aesthetics of the area, preserve the natural habitat of the river, and provide residents with safe access to the river, while also protecting the environment.