On November 21, 2023, a historic moment will be marked in India’s economic landscape as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the Surat Diamond Bourse, the world’s largest office space in a single project. Strategically designed to relocate and expand the diamond trading industry from Mumbai to Surat, the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB) aims to foster growth, development, and dynamism within the diamond industry.
Surat Diamond Bourse: A Marvel of Scale and Ambition
The Surat Diamond Bourse has earned global acclaim as the largest office space project, surpassing even the Pentagon office complex of the US Department of Defense. Spanning an impressive 6.7 million square feet, the SDB has been constructed at a cost of over Rs 3,000 crore. Its significance lies not only in its sheer size but also in its role as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation.
Fostering Economic Growth
The relocation and expansion of the diamond trading industry to Surat are expected to breathe new life into the city’s economy. With the inauguration of the SDB, Surat is poised to become the central hub for diamond cutting and polishing in India. This move will attract professionals, artisans, and entrepreneurs associated with the diamond trade, giving a much-needed boost to the region’s economic dynamism.
A Beacon of Innovation and Collaboration
The Surat Diamond Bourse is not merely an expansive office complex; it is envisioned as a hub of trade, innovation, and collaboration. The exchange will serve as a melting pot for ideas, technological advancements, and business opportunities within the diamond industry. By facilitating networking and knowledge sharing, the SDB aims to elevate India’s standing in the global diamond market.
A Catalyst for Employment
The establishment of the Surat Diamond Bourse is expected to create over 1.5 lakh jobs in various sectors associated with the diamond trade. These job opportunities will range from skilled positions, such as cutters and polishers, to management and administrative roles. The influx of employment opportunities is bound to have a positive impact on the socio-economic fabric of the region.
Intricate Design and Sustainable Architecture
The Surat Diamond Bourse is not just an architectural marvel in terms of scale; it also boasts a design that emphasizes sustainability. The prestigious architecture firm, Morphogenesis, based in New Delhi, is responsible for the impressive design. The building complex consists of nine interconnected structures, connected by 24-feet wide spine corridors. Each building stands 15 floors high, including the ground floor, and offers office spaces ranging from 300 to 75,000 square feet.
Green and Sustainable Features
The Surat Diamond Bourse has earned a platinum ranking from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), underscoring its commitment to sustainability. The central spine’s unique shape has been engineered to funnel wind throughout the structure, promoting natural ventilation. Additionally, the radiant cooling system helps lower indoor temperatures by circulating chilled water under the floors, reducing the reliance on conventional air conditioning.
Eco-friendly Landscape
A standout feature of the Surat Diamond Bourse is its landscaped court, conceptualized around the theme of “panchtatva” – the five elements: air, water, fire, earth, and sky. The court, which spans approximately 200 feet wide and 300 feet long, provides a serene and eco-friendly ambiance for the occupants.
State-of-the-Art Security Measures
In keeping with the importance of the diamond trade, the Surat Diamond Bourse boasts top-notch security measures. The facility includes highly secure campus security checkpoints, comprehensive CCTV surveillance, a control room, and under-car scanners at all entry and exit gates. These measures ensure a safe and secure environment for all professionals and visitors within the complex.
