Surat-Gujarat - Prime Minister Narendra Modi rejoiced on Wednesday, July 19, as he commemorated the inauguration of Surat Diamond Bourse, the world's largest office building.

This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone for the diamond industry, as Surat is renowned worldwide for its expertise in crafting 90 percent of the world's diamonds.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially inagurate the building later this year.  According to reports, the eagerly awaited occupation by the first tenants is expected to commence in November 2023, signifying a remarkable milestone. The remarkable undertaking, spanning a four-year period, encountered unforeseen setbacks, with a two-year delay attributed to the unprecedented impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Modi applauded the dynamism and growth of Surat's diamond industry and praised the Surat Diamond Bourse as a testament to India's entrepreneurial spirit. He emphasized that the bourse would not only act as a trading hub but also foster innovation and collaboration, further strengthening the nation's economy and generating employment opportunities.

The Surat Diamond Bourse serves as an all-encompassing center for over 65,000 diamond professionals, including cutters, polishers, and traders. Spanning an expansive floor space of over 7.1 million square feet, it surpasses even the Pentagon, securing its position as the world's largest office building.

This impressive 15-story complex, spread across 35 acres, features a unique design comprising nine interconnected rectangular structures emanating from a central 'spine.'

Following four years of construction, which encountered some delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Surat Diamond Bourse is set to welcome its first occupants in November.

With more than 4,700 office spaces, the Surat Diamond Bourse offers not only ample room for conducting business but also accommodates small diamond-cutting and polishing workshops. The building is equipped with 131 elevators and provides dining, retail, wellness, and conference facilities to cater to the needs of its workforce.

All-party meeting, opposition to raise diverse issues in monsoon session

PM Opens New Terminal Building at Veer Savarkar Airport, Port Blair