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The Ship Archaeological Wing (UAW) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is conducting an archaeological exploration in Dwarka and Bet Dwarka in Gujarat. This campaign is being conducted under the leadership of Prof. Alok Tripathi, Additional Director General of ASI. This exploration is an extension of a survey conducted in Dwarka in February 2025.
Dwarka is an important site in India historically, archaeologically and culturally. Due to its mention in ancient texts, it has been a subject of research for a long time. Many historians and archaeologists have studied this area. Due to this, in February 2025, a five-member team of ASI conducted an exploration in the southern part of Gomti Creek. The purpose of this survey is to inspect the current status of previously explored areas and identify potential excavation sites in future.
Objective of Ship Archaeological Research
The main objective of the current ship archaeological research is to discover, document and study the submerged archaeological remains. Apart from this, archaeologists working in this area are also being trained in the field of ship archaeology. During the study, the antiquity of marine sediments and antiquities will be determined by scientific analysis.
Earlier research and discoveries
Between 2005 and 2007, the ship archaeology wing of ASI had conducted extensive research in the coastal and marine areas of Dwarka. In these researches, ancient statues, stone anchors and other important antiquities were found. However, due to lack of open area around the Dwarkadhish temple, excavation could be done only in a limited area. In 2007, excavations conducted near the northern gate of the temple discovered structures 10 meters deep and 26 layers. Iron and copper items, rings, beads and pottery were found from here.
Further plans
The current research work has been expanded to the Okhamandal area. Archaeologists are identifying potential sites and studying them through scientific methods. A special team of 9 archaeologists is participating in this research, who are being given in-depth knowledge of ship archaeology.
This team also includes three women divers:
- Dr. Aparajita Sharma (Assistant Superintendent Archaeologist, UAW)
- Poonam Bind (Assistant Superintendent Archaeologist)
- Dr. Rajkumari Barbina (Assistant Archaeologist)
Apart from this, Director of Excavation and Exploration Hemasagar A. Naik is also associated with this expedition. This study can prove to be an important step in Indian archaeology, which will help in understanding the antiquity and historical importance of the historical sites of Dwarka and its surroundings in a better way.
