The Vadnagar Excavation Shed, part of Vadnagar Museum is a significant project undertaken for the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at Vadnagar, Gujarat.  Vadnagar, known as one of India’s oldest living towns, has a history that spans over 2,700 years. It has been a multicultural settlement, showcasing influences from various civilizations including Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, and Islamic cultures. The ongoing excavations have revealed significant artifacts and structures that provide insights into ancient urban life and architectural practices. This Museum is part of a broader effort to showcase artifacts collected from the excavation site, which represents distinct civilizations, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The excavation of this archeological site reaches a depth of several meters, with all surrounding filled up soil. To safeguard this important archaeological site and enhance its appeal as part of the museum attractions, a permanent shed is being constructed above the excavation area. The establishment of this excavation shed is not only crucial for protecting valuable archaeological findings but also serve as a focal point for visitors as engineering marvel. 

The design of the shed features long space trusses supported by reinforced cement concrete (RCC) columns on either side. The span of these space trusses extends up to 87 meters, allowing for an expansive and unobstructed excavation site. On the lake side, one row of columns is planned with an unsupported height of 22 meters, while the other row supports the structure on the opposite side of the excavation. Given the challenges posed by the filled-up soil and the heavy loads from the structure, a pile foundation system has been adopted to ensure stability and durability. This engineering choice is critical for maintaining the integrity of both the shed and the archaeological site beneath it.

Our firm has provided comprehensive structural design services for this prestigious project, ensuring that all elements meet safety standards while supporting the innovative architectural vision. The project aligns with broader efforts to promote heritage tourism in Gujarat, contributing to local economic development while preserving and showcasing India’s rich historical legacy. 

Year: 2024