Minister Rajmohan Undertakes Scuba Diving to Explore Poompuhar Sites
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the continuation of these archaeological research works so that future generations can learn about the modern, ancient heritage of Poompuhar.
Mayiladuthurai: A 20-day deep-sea excavation, at a depth of 10 meters, two kilometers off the Poompuhar coast in Mayiladuthurai district was launched on Sunday by the department of archaeology
A 25-member team led by Prof. Rajan, a marine research consultant, also included archaeological department joint director Yatheeshkumar, retired joint director Sivanandam, officer Vasanthakumar, and scuba divers. Guided by Time Force organization director Aravindan, the team set out on a motorboat and two fiber boats equipped with state-of-the-art diving gear and underwater cameras.
Archeology and School Education Minister Rajmohan, along with Archeology Department Director Jayaseelan, went deep into the sea using scuba diving to personally witness and inspect the underwater excavation. The minister extended his wishes to the archeology department officials and scuba divers involved in the deep-sea research. The Tamil Nadu Police had made elaborate security arrangements while the Minister conducted deep sea inspection.
Later, the minister told media persons that the ancient city of Poompuhar, which showcases the civilisation of the ancient Tamils, is submerged under sea. To explore and understand this, the Tamil Nadu department of archaeology is actively engaged in research work. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has ordered the continuation of these archaeological research works so that future generations can learn about the modern, ancient heritage of Poompuhar.
He said when he visited and inspected the site recently, ancient buildings, potsherds, and planned street layouts were visible. This indicates that it could be a Sangam-era city. Furthermore, ring wells and long stone remnants have been found. Archaeological excavation works will continue. I am delighted to personally participate and witness the glories of ancient Poompuhar by diving deep into the sea, he added.
He said various teachers' associations in Tamil Nadu have submitted demands and he is currently conducting reviews regarding them. The demands of part-time teachers working in schools will be considered with compassion. As a first step toward this, the Chief Minister has issued an announcement withdrawing the cases against teachers.
Throughout Tamil Nadu, private schools must admit students in compliance with the Right to Education (RTE) Act and its regulations. Furthermore, notice boards displaying the fees prescribed by the Government of Tamil Nadu must be strictly installed, he added.
