The archaeology and geology departments of MS University are all set to lend their expertise in the underwater exploration to be carried out shortly in the Gulf of Cambay.Explorations by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) had indicated a likely pre-Harappan civilisation, a finding that excited scholars and politicians alike.Scholars remain divided over a possibility of a submerged pre-Harappan civilisation as declared, promptly, by the HRD Minister Murli Manohar Joshi. The NIOT had then organised a seminar which was attended by archaeological and geological experts from MSU in Chennai to take up the study.Patterns formed by sonar waves during the underwater explorations made by NIOT a few months ago in the Gulf of Cambay had indicated a step well-like pattern in the area indicating the likelihood of a settlement.‘‘We have worked extensively in south Gujarat as well as the Saurashtra peninsula and will interpret and analyse the antiquities recovered from the area,’’ said Prof V.H. Sonawane, head of the archaeology department. The NIOT has sanctioned Rs 3 lakh grant to the department for one-year period which is likely to be extended further.Prof Sonawane added that explorations are likely to be undertaken by the NIOT in December in the area that is 80 kms west of Surat.
