Explorations of lesser known old ports sites along the eastern Saurashtra Coast, Gujarat

Abstract

Explorations were carried out along the shore from Khambhat to Jafrabad along the Saurashtra coast during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. The main objective of these explorations was to locate ancient ports along this coast and to document the present condition of the coastline. The ports surveyed include Dharabandar, Jafrabad, Mahuwa, Pipavav, Victor port, and Dholera, besides a few Medieval period sites at Babarkot and Gogha. The investigation revealed that these ports which have played a significant role in trade and commerce are now abandoned due to siltation; and also help to trace the emergence of new ports where modern facilities are available. Though a few fishing boats still visit these ports, it is not to the extent that one can call these fishing harbours.