Chief Secretary reviews excavation at Zehanpora; scientific dating methods being used as archaeologists work to unravel the region’s ancient Buddhist heritage
Inayat Qayoom
Baramulla, August 29:
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Saturday inspected the ongoing archaeological excavation at Zehanpora in Sheeri area of Baramulla, a site believed to be nearly 2,000 years old and associated with Kashmir’s ancient Buddhist heritage.
Dulloo visited the excavation site of ancient Buddhist stupas to take stock of the progress of the archaeological work and examine the findings emerging from the site. He was accompanied by K.K. Sidha, JKAS, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, who briefed him about the discoveries and the ongoing excavation process.
The Chief Secretary described the site as an important window into Kashmir’s ancient civilisation and said the excavation could significantly enhance understanding of the region’s historical and cultural evolution.
“Zehanpora, Baramulla, is a nearly 2,000-year-old Buddhist archaeological site, and the ongoing excavation will reveal more about Kashmir’s ancient civilisation,” Dulloo said.
He said modern scientific techniques, including carbon dating, were being employed to scientifically analyse the archaeological material and establish the chronology and significance of the discoveries.
Dulloo said the excavation was likely to continue for up to five years, indicating the scale and importance of the archaeological work being undertaken at the site.
He further observed that, once adequately explored and conserved, Zehanpora could emerge as a significant cultural and tourism destination, offering visitors an opportunity to explore an important chapter of Kashmir’s ancient Buddhist past.
The excavation at Zehanpora is expected to shed further light on the historical significance of the area and contribute to a deeper understanding of Kashmir’s archaeological and civilisational heritage.SNS