Assam University Professor Leads Underwater Archaeological Expedition of Dwarka

The Underwater Archaeology Wing (UAW) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), under the leadership of Professor Alok Tripathi, has undertaken an extensive onshore and offshore archaeological expedition at Dwarka and Bet Dwarka in Gujarat. Tripathi, an Additional Director-General of the ASI, is also a professor in the Department of History at Assam University, Silchar.

The project, which follows preliminary fieldwork conducted in February 2025, aims to search, document, and analyse submerged archaeological remains. The study also includes training archaeologists in underwater excavation techniques, making it a significant step towards expanding the activities of the UAW.

A team of nine archaeologists, including three women divers, is actively participating in the exploration. The team members are surveying an expanded area in Okhamandal, focusing on identifying potential sites and collecting artefacts for further scientific analysis. The research involves underwater diving operations and the study of marine deposits to ascertain the antiquity of recovered objects.

Tripathi, a renowned expert in field archaeology, underwater archaeology, heritage management, and museum studies, has played a key role in past excavations at Dwarka. Earlier ASI-led investigations from 2005 to 2007, conducted in collaboration with Indian Navy divers, revealed significant archaeological finds, including ancient sculptures, stone anchors, iron objects, beads, copper rings, and pottery. These discoveries provided evidence of continuous settlement in the region, despite challenges posed by thick calcareous deposits and underwater vegetation.

The present excavation aims to explore previously unexamined areas and document the structural remains near the Dwarkadheesh Temple and the submerged clusters in the Arabian Sea. The findings from this ongoing study are expected to provide further insights into the ancient history of Dwarka, a city deeply rooted in Indian cultural and historical narratives.