Tamil Nadu CM Stalin commends launch of underwater archaeological survey off Poompuhar coast

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Saturday (September 20, 2025) commended the launch of the underwater archaeological survey off the coast of Poompuhar, the ancient port city once known as Kaveripoompattinam, in Mayiladuthurai district.

Quoting a verse from Pattinapaalai, which highlights the flourishing trade at Poompuhar during the Sangam age, Mr. Stalin, in a post on X, said: “We proclaimed Keeladi as the cradle of our civilisation. We showed the world the antiquity of iron. Next, we shall bring forth the glory of Poompuhar.”

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Minister for Finance Thangam Thennarasu, who also holds the Archaeology portfolio, said in a social media post that whether on land or under water, the Tamil Nadu Government was committed to showcasing to the world the greatness of ancient Tamils through robust archaeological and scientific research.

The underwater archaeological survey, which began on Friday (September 19, 2025), is expected to continue for about 10 days, during which archaeologists from Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology, along with experts from the Indian Maritime University, will conduct studies using side-scan sonar, echo sounders, underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and sub-bottom profilers to map the sea bed.