The Maharashtra Government has unveiled plans to develop Gilbert Hill, a 200-foot monolithic column of black basalt rock in Mumbai’s Andheri, into a tourist attraction comparable to Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Formed around 66 million years ago during the Mesozoic Era, Gilbert Hill was declared a National Park in 1952 and holds Grade II heritage status. It’s one of only three volcanic rock outcrops globally and houses temples and a garden accessible via a carved staircase. The Mesozoic Era, known as the “Age of Dinosaurs,” spanned from 252 to 66 million years ago and saw the emergence of numerous dinosaur species.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Monolithic Column: A single, massive rock structure that stands as a distinct geological feature. Gilbert Hill is a prime example of a monolithic column.
- Heritage Structure: A building or site of historical, cultural, or architectural significance protected by law. Gilbert Hill holds Grade II heritage status, acknowledging its importance.
- National Park: A protected area designated by the government for conservation of natural and cultural resources. Gilbert Hill was declared a National Park in 1952.
- Mesozoic Era: A geological era that lasted from approximately 252 to 66 million years ago, marked by the dominance of dinosaurs and significant climatic and geological changes.
- Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) Extinction: A mass extinction event that occurred at the end of the Cretaceous Period, leading to the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs and many other species. The event is believed to have been caused by multiple factors, including an asteroid impact and volcanic activity.