Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram becomes India’s first-ever green energy archaeological site

The Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, is a historic site dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. It’s famous for its ancient stone architecture dating back to the 7th century and holds UNESCO World Heritage status.

Recently, the Shore Temple achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming India’s first green energy archaeological site. This achievement was made possible through a collaboration between Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre India and Hand in Hand India, who jointly implemented the Green Heritage Project.

One of the key accomplishments of the Green Heritage Project is the shift to clean and sustainable solar energy to illuminate the Shore Temple. Three solar plants, each with a 10-kilowatt capacity, have been strategically placed in the region to harness abundant solar power. Importantly, any surplus energy generated by these solar plants will be stored and channeled back into the grid, contributing to future energy needs while reducing environmental impact.

In addition to adopting solar power, the project aims to enhance the overall experience for visitors and minimize the ecological footprint of tourism in the area. One significant facility included in this initiative is a solar-operated reverse osmosis plant that provides clean drinking water to tourists. This ensures that visitors have access to safe and sustainable hydration while exploring the temple.

Recognizing the growing importance of electric vehicles (EVs), the Green Heritage Project has taken steps to promote clean transportation. A dedicated parking shed with three charging units has been installed to facilitate the recharging of EVs. This encourages the use of environmentally friendly transportation options and supports the transition to electric vehicles.

Furthermore, the project has a strong focus on empowering the local community by creating job opportunities. Women from the local area have been employed to operate electric buggies, providing a sustainable mode of transportation within the temple premises. This initiative benefits pregnant women, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional transportation methods.

The Shore Temple gets its name because it overlooks the Bay of Bengal. It consists of three distinct shrines and showcases a seamless blend of Dravidian and Pallava architectural styles. The temple is open to the public from 6 am to 6 pm and is well-connected to the rest of the city. Visitors can easily reach Mahabalipuram by taking a bus from Kanchipuram. Within the temple campus, visitors can explore on foot or by cycling, offering a peaceful and eco-friendly way to discover the small town.

Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram has achieved a significant milestone

In summary, the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram has achieved a significant milestone by becoming India’s first green energy archaeological site through the Green Heritage Project. The adoption of solar power for illumination, clean drinking water facilities, support for electric vehicles, and job creation for the local community all contribute to enhancing the temple’s sustainability and visitor experience. This initiative sets an inspiring example of preserving cultural heritage while embracing environmentally responsible practices.

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