Bangladesh National Monument at Savar

National Martyrs' Memorial (Jatiyo Smriti Soudho)at Savar, about 35 km north-west of Dhaka built in memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, which brought the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistani rule. The Monument tower designed by Arch Syed Mainul Hussain is composed of seven isosceles triangular planes, each varying in size in its height and base. The planes are folded at the middle and placed one after another. The highest point of the structure reaches 150 feet. Several mass-graves and a pool of water body are placed in front of the monument.

Monument complex is spread over an area of 34 hectares (84 acres) wrapped around by a green belt of 10 hectares (24.7 acre). Concrete is used for the monument tower while red bricks is used for other structures and pavements. Water pool and the platform for laying wreath are placed in front of the monument while mass-graves are on both sides. From the main gate one can see the monument axially, but to reach there one has to walk through different levels of red pavements and cross a lake - all these representing the struggle for independence.

The Public Works Department of the Government of Bangladesh undertook its construction in three phases from 1972 and completed in late ‘80’s. It was my fortune to be associated with this scheme as Supdt. Engineer for construction of the monument tower in 1982 which was completed in record time of 3 months by M/S Concord, using local technology of bamboo scaffolds. The site is a popular tourist spot and large number of locals and foreigners visit every day.

*** also visit: www.travelmughal.com