(a) whether the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has recently
discovered a number of Harappan and pre-harappan ancient artefacts in the gulf of
Cambay, especially on the coast of Gujarat;
(b) whether these archaeological remains indicate that the ancient city of Dwarka
existed there;
(c) if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether the site is likely to be declared a national monument; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
THE MINISTER OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT, MINISTER OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTER OF OCEAN DEVELOPMENT ( DR. MURLI MANOHAR JOSHI)
(a) : The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai of the Department
of Ocean Development (DOD), Government of India had during the course of under
water surveys in the Gulf of Cambay, Gujarat come across a stretch of formations typical
of a riverine regime in the middle of the sea at 30-40 m water depth. An area of almost
9 km. stretch west of Hazira in Gujarat appeared to be lined with well laid house
basement like features partially covered by sand waves and sand ripples. The Side Scan
Sonar deployed for the survey picked up images which indicate several geometric
objects that are normally man made. During subsequent surveys various
object/artefacts were picked up from the sea bed. Whether these are Harappan or Pre-
Harappan can be determined only after more detailed investigations.
(b) & (C) : The National Institute of Oceanography , Goa have in the past under taken
marine archeological explorations off Dwarka, Bet Dwarka and Somnath. The present
site in the Gulf of Cambay is however different from these sites.
(d) & (e) : According to Archaeological Survey of India this site cannot be declared a
National Monument at this stage, as the findings have to be confirmed through further
detailed surveys and investigations.