Tripura: ASI Selects 4 New Excavation Sites, Chabimura to be Included in ASI Protected Zones

Agartala, March 13, 2020:

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has selected four new spots for excavation in Tripura after completion of two years of village to village survey.

During an exclusive interaction with Inside Northeast, Singh said, “We have selected some areas at Majumder Tilla, Surya Pahar under Jolaibari RD block under South Tripura district to carry out excavations. Another two areas have also been proposed in Chalita-Bankul under Rupaichari RD block under the same district for excavation”.

Singh informed that the excavation sites have been selected after a village to village survey conducted by the ASI in last two years. ASI is also hopeful of getting more Hindu-Buddhist remaining in the regions.

According reports, there are altogether eight existing sites under the direct observation of ASI. It has found traces of ancient Hindu-Buddhist culture in Pilak, Unakoti, Boxanagar and some areas of Amarpur.

Recently, a burial ground-like structure was unearthed at Bhangmun in Jampui hills. The authorities are expecting to protect the area following the discovery.

“We have unearthed some burial ground-like structure along with human bones. Apparently, it is anticipated to be of 16th or 17th century. We have forwarded the collected samples in Delhi to find out the exact time period. We are expecting the report to be published soon”, Singh said.

He added that there are three temples in Amarpur, which had been marked as Temple 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Proposals have been sent to Delhi for taking supervision of the temples under the ASI.

On a related note, the ASI has also sent proposals to Delhi asking for inclusion of Chabimura as an archaeological site. “The idols carved in the hilly terrains in Chabimura needed to be preserved scientifically. The ASI is willing to take over the charge of Chabimura, we have forwarded a proposal and waiting for a positive reply”, said Singh.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Prahlad Singha Patil paid a visit to Tripura recently, during which he asked the officials to work in coordination with the tourism department for the overall development of the state.

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