The project aims to preserve the unique geological features of Jaflong, Sylhet, focusing on its unique exposed shale formations dating back to the Eocene epoch (approximately 55.8 million years ago). The site features natural hillocks that reveal rare subsurface shale layers, offering invaluable insights into Earth’s geological history. These hillocks have been declared as a geological heritage site and require conservation to prevent degradation from human or natural causes.

The site

Jaflong in Sylhet, Bangladesh, has long been significant for geological researchers, educators, and students due to its diverse geological formations. Jaflong owes its formation to the intricate geological processes, particularly the phenomenon of subduction. Over millions of years, the tectonic plates underlying the region have been in constant motion, with one plate sliding beneath another. This subduction process has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape, gradually uplifting the terrain and exposing layers of ancient geological formations, including the renowned Kopili Shale layer. As the plates continue to interact, the forces generated have led to the gradual emergence of Jaflong, with its distinctive geological features becoming increasingly visible over time. Thus, the site stands as a testament to the dynamic forces of nature and a timeless heritage of geological evolution.

The site sits at an elevation of 108 feet above sea level, and is situated at the bank of Piyain River near the Bangladesh-India border.  It hosts 42 different species of plants, contributing to its ecological richness. While nearby stone quarries have minimal direct impact, illegal extraction poses a threat to its integrity.

Design Considerations and Form Development

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.

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.

Program requirements and outcomes

The project covers a range of programs, considering awareness, conservation, and geotourism in the area, such as a geological museum, geopark, seismic observation center, library, training institute, dormitory, and 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 a 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 – A Global Framework” and scientific researchers, a walking trail has been designed with interactive and educational points throughout.

Other programs: The incorporation of a dormitory within the contour site presented unique challenges in terms of spatial organization. Despite the dormitory blends with the concept of 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.

Preserving Jaflong’s Eocene-era Kopili Shale is essential not only for safeguarding the heritage but also for maintaining the delicate balance of biodiversity. 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.