Archive · 7 Sep 2026
Minister Rajmohan Joins Tamil Nadu Deep-Sea Excavation at Poompuhar
Tamil Nadu has started a 20-day underwater archaeology project near Poompuhar.
The work is taking place about 10 meters below the sea.
The site is two kilometers from the coast.
A team of 25 researchers, officials, and divers is taking part.
Minister Rajmohan personally used scuba equipment to see the work.
Researchers said they saw objects and structures that may belong to an old city.
These include pottery pieces, possible buildings, wells, and stone remains.
The team will continue studying the area to learn more about Poompuhar’s past.
A 20-day deep-sea excavation began 10 meters underwater, two kilometers off the Poompuhar coast.
A 25-member team led by marine research consultant Prof. Rajan is conducting the excavation.
Minister Rajmohan and Archaeology Department Director Jayaseelan inspected the site by scuba diving.
Researchers reported seeing possible ancient buildings, potsherds, streets, ring wells, and long stone remnants.
The minister said Tamil Nadu would continue research to study Poompuhar’s submerged heritage and ancient civilisation.
- Who
- Tamil Nadu Archaeology Department officials, a 25-member team led by Prof. Rajan, scuba divers, and Minister Rajmohan.
- What
- A 20-day deep-sea excavation and underwater inspection of submerged archaeological sites.
- When
- The excavation was launched on Sunday; the article does not specify the date.
- Where
- About two kilometers off the Poompuhar coast, at a depth of 10 meters, in Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu.
- Why
- To investigate the submerged ancient city of Poompuhar and better understand its historical heritage.
- Project duration
- 20 days
- Excavation depth
- 10 meters underwater
- Distance from coast
- Two kilometers off the Poompuhar coast
- Team size
- 25 members
- Team leader
- Prof. Rajan, a marine research consultant
- Reported findings
- Possible ancient buildings, potsherds, planned street layouts, ring wells, and long stone remnants
- Equipment
- Motorboat, two fiber boats, diving gear, and underwater cameras