Heritage Sanctuary for Geology

American International University Bangladesh, Department of Architecture, Dhaka

Project idea

The project focuses on preserving the unique geological features in Jaflong, Sylhet from the Eocene age (55.8 million years ago) i.e., the only open limestone, layers of ‘Kopili Shale’, and boulder beds along with hillocks. These hillocks have been declared as geological heritage due to the presence of shale layers exposed on the surface as well as beneath the ground, and need to be conserved against extinction for man-made or natural reasons. The area is situated at the bank of the Piyain River near the Bangladesh - India border. Almost all the available siltstone layers inside Bangladesh are situated in this region in an open state. Such layers are not available anywhere else in Bangladesh. Five formations from the Tertiary period and three deposits from the Holocene period showcase the area's rich geological heritage. Notably, the site showcases the exposed Shale formations dating back millions of years to the Eocene age.

Project description

Emphasizing the site's natural forces, the location of the geological heritage (Kopili shale) on the site has been considered first, along with the depth, and the buffer radius it is assumed to cover below ground. Intending for the heritage to remain the highlight, the design resembles the embedded stones' shapes, reminiscent of Jaflong, Sylhet, with a concept of integrating the massing seamlessly with its surroundings. Since the entire 22 acres have been declared as heritage, a minimal footprint massing has been designed, along with other scenic considerations such as the view of Meghalaya in India to the North, and the Piyain River to the west.

The project covers a range of programs considering awareness, conservation, and geo tourism in the area; such as a geological museum, geopark, seismic observation center, library, training institute, dormitory, and a conference center.

Geological Museum: The geological museum encompasses a diverse array of sectors, displaying a collection of geological rocks collected from all over Bangladesh and the neighboring countries, offering unique insights into the fascinating world of geology. The first sector, "A Walk-Through Time," serves as a captivating journey through Earth’s evolution over millennia. Moving on to "Reading the Rocks," the museum delves into the earliest formations of rocks offering a glimpse into the Earth's ancient past. In "The Dynamic Earth" sector, visitors explore the complex workings of earthquakes and tectonics, and the forces that shape our planet's surface. Transitioning to "The Habitable Earth," the museum illuminates the formation of seas and continents, unraveling the mysteries behind the Earth's ever-changing landscape. Lastly, "Framing the Fossil" presents a unique exhibit of fossils that are meticulously arranged on the ground, replicating their natural placement in geological strata where visitors can see ancient remnants of prehistoric life.

Geopark: The geopark serves as a focal point for geotourism, attracting wide range of visitors to experience the geological wonders of Jaflong. This influx of tourists also contributes significantly to the economic vitality of the area, sustaining local businesses. Picking guidelines from UNESCO Global Geoparks and scientific researchers, a walking trail has been designed with interactive and educational points throughout.

Technical information

Environmental factors, including the nearby Dawki faultline influence the design, along with the concept of stabilizing an environment against earthquake vulnerability. In light of extensive research indicating its resilience in earthquake-prone regions, a cut-and-cover structure has been deliberately selected for this site. Additionally, by incorporating shear walls, truss systems in the roof, and space frames into the building design, the structural integrity has been enhanced. Moreover, a geotechnical ground improvement method is proposed to mitigate landslide risks in the hilly terrain.

Other programs
The incorporation of a dormitory within the contour site presented unique challenges in terms of spatial organization. Despite this, the dormitory blends with the concept into the site’s natural surroundings while accommodating the dormitory's functional requirements for its guests. The geological library has been designed considering the extensive collection of geological resources, with dedicated spaces for mapping tables and oversized research materials, ensuring convenient access and utilization of these specialized resources. The Seismic Observation Centre encompasses a team of researchers and a suite of specialized laboratories, including the Geomorphology Lab, Sedimentation Lab, Instrumentation Lab, Clean Microscopy facility, GPS Control Room, Seismograph Machine Room, and Archives.

Conclusion
The preservation of these geological formations, mainly Kopili Shale from the Eocene period, is essential not only for safeguarding the heritage but also for maintaining the delicate balance of biodiversity that depends on them. By recognizing the interconnectedness between geology and biodiversity, the project ensures the long-term sustainability of both natural resources for future generations to enjoy and for researchers to study, while safeguarding the natural heritage within a sanctuary setting.