Why in news?
Gilbert Hill, a towering monolith in Andheri, Mumbai, returned to public attention in February 2026 after industrialist Anand Mahindra praised it on social media. His post highlighted that the formation is one of only three such columnar basalt structures in the world. The renewed discussion has sparked calls for better preservation and tourism outreach.
Background
Gilbert Hill is a 61‑metre (about 200‑foot) high column of compact basalt rock located in the Mumbai suburb of Andheri. It was formed about 66 million years ago during the massive volcanic eruptions that created the Deccan Traps, a vast basaltic lava province in western India. As the lava cooled and contracted, it fractured into vertical hexagonal columns, creating the striking pillar we see today. The hill is named after the American geologist Grove Karl Gilbert.
Geological and cultural features
- Rare volcanic column: Gilbert Hill displays vertical columnar jointing – a pattern where basalt cracks into elongated hexagonal prisms. Similar formations are found at the Devils Tower in Wyoming (USA) and the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.
- Formation process: During the end of the Cretaceous period, repeated lava flows covered large parts of India. As molten lava cooled, it shrank and cracked, producing polygonal columns. Over millions of years, erosion sculpted Gilbert Hill into a freestanding pillar with steep sides and a flat top.
- Protected monument: Recognising its scientific value, the Government of India declared Gilbert Hill a national monument in 1952. In 2007, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation listed it as a heritage structure, providing further protection against quarrying and urban encroachment.
- Temples on the summit: A staircase carved into the rock leads to a small plateau at the top, where shrines dedicated to Goddess Gaodevi and Goddess Durgamata stand. The hill thus serves both religious and geological interests.
Recent attention and challenges
- Social media spotlight: Anand Mahindra’s tweet in February 2026 noted that Gilbert Hill is one of only three such volcanic columns worldwide. His post encouraged residents to appreciate local heritage sites.
- Need for awareness: Despite its rarity, Gilbert Hill is relatively unknown to many Mumbaikars. Its location amid densely populated neighbourhoods and lack of signage make it easy to overlook.
- Balancing preservation and access: As interest grows, authorities must balance tourism with conservation. Improving information boards and guided tours while preventing damage will help protect the site.
Source: NDTV
