Underwater exploration of submerged towns near Tranquebar (Tarangambadi) on Tamilnadu coast

Abstract

Geophysical survey of the area sea-wind of the present Poompuhar monuments in Tamil Nadu, India was carried out using echosoundings, side scan sonar and magnetometer surveys. The echogram when correlated with the sonograph show that the seabed is covered with sand. The massive brick jetty, pier and protection walls of 17th and 18th century has been destroyed due to the wave action. Further land ward, the 11th century Chola Temple, locally known as Masalamani Temple has also collapsed owing to the transgression of the sea. The foot of the medieval habitation deposit north of the temple is of great archaeological importance. Innumerable coins, mostly of copper and a few of silver, lead and gold were found indicating wreck or structure submergence.