Q. Gilbert Hill, a monolith column of black basalt rock, lies in which state of India?
Answer:
Maharashtra
Notes: The Maharashtra Government has proposed to transform Gilbert Hill, a 200-foot monolithic column of black basalt rock in Mumbai, into a tourist attraction similar to Dubai's Burj Khalifa. This geological wonder, formed around 66 million years ago during the Mesozoic Era, stands as a unique heritage site. Declared a National Park in 1952 and categorized as a Grade II heritage structure by the Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation in 2007, Gilbert Hill is one of only three volcanic rock outcrops globally. The site features temples and a small garden atop the rock, accessible via a steep carved staircase. This project aims to boost tourism and conservation efforts, preserving this ancient relic for future generations. The Mesozoic Era, during which Gilbert Hill was formed, spans from 252 million to 66 million years ago. It's known as the "Age of Dinosaurs," characterized by the emergence and domination of various dinosaur species across three periods: Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous. The era ended with a mass extinction event, marking a critical transition in Earth's history.