Why in News
- Anand Mahindra highlighted Gilbert Hill, calling it Mumbai's hidden "dinosaur-era volcano," sparking widespread online interest, praise for its heritage value, and debates on local traffic strain in Andheri.
Geological Facts
- Formed 66 million years ago from molten lava squeezed through Earth's clefts during the Cretaceous period, creating hexagonal basalt columns; one of only three such global formations (others: Devil's Tower and Devil's Postpile in USA).
- Declared a protected National Monument in 1952 to halt quarrying that eroded it in the early-mid 20th century.
Location
- Situated in Andheri West, Mumbai, near Garuda Ganesh Temple; topped by small temples (Hanuman and Gaondevi Durga Devi) and a garden, reached via steep rock-carved stairs offering suburban views.
- Surrounded by urban development, facing risks from construction vibrations and rockfalls.
Conservation Efforts
- Protected with metal netting, bolts, and strengthening by Maharashtra PWD after rockfall incidents; 2025 plans include a Rs 2.5 crore panoramic capsule lift (cleared by Mumbai Heritage Committee) for tourism access.
- Past issues: Stop-work notices on nearby excavations; calls by politicians like Ameet Satam and Uddhav Thackeray for beautification to boost protection via tourism.
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