Statue of Unity: Security beefed up in Gujarat ahead of inauguration today

Ahead of the inauguration of the Statue of Unity, world's tallest statue on Wednesday, security has been beefed up in Gujarat's Kevadiya.

The statue will be unveiled on the occasion of the fourth Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), which is observed every year on the birthday of freedom fighter and India's first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Gujarat to inaugurate the statue.

Located in Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre long statue occupies over 20,000 square meters, and is surrounded by a 12 square km artificial lake.

"It's a historical day as the tallest statue in the world - statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who united India, will be dedicated to the nation. It was dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi since the time he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat. His dream is coming true," Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani told ANI.

Besides Gujarat, several events are scheduled to be held by various Ministries, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and organisations across the country.

The National Unity Day will be marked by people by taking a pledge to protect the unity and integrity of the nation and participating in the Run for Unity programme across the country.

"The whole country is waiting for the inauguration of the statue. Tourists will feel good here in the natural environment. Tourism will increase here on a large scale which is good for our country," said Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel.

The total project cost is estimated to be Rs. 2,989 crore.