The Tamil Nadu Department of Archaeology has launched the third phase of its underwater excavation off the coast of Poompuhar in Mayiladuthurai district, aiming to study the antiquity of ancient Tamil civilisation with support from the Indian Maritime University.
Earlier surveys conducted in March 2025 and March 2026 reported findings that included submerged structural remains such as building features, a surrounding wall and road-like formations, along with pottery fragments. Officials also said a temple structure was identified in the Vanagiri area, and a ship believed to date to the 17th century was found.
In the current phase, the team has begun work around two kilometres from the Poompuhar shoreline at a depth of about 10 metres in the deep-sea zone. The excavation is expected to continue for 20 days.
The operation is being carried out by a 25-member team comprising archaeology officials and scuba divers, using modern diving equipment and underwater cameras. The team worked from one motorboat and two fibre boats under the guidance of Aravindan, director of the Time Force organisation.
During the inspection, Tamil Nadu Minister for Archaeology and School Education Rajmohan, along with Archaeology Director Jeyaseelan, descended to the site using scuba gear and reviewed the work. The minister later told reporters he had undergone two days of training in Chennai and said the remains observed—such as old structures, pottery shards and street-like layouts—suggest the site could be a Sangam-era city, adding that further research would continue.
