1. Lakshadweep Islands
Why in the News?
- A new study using coral microatolls in the Maldives and nearby regions revealed that sea-level rise in the Indian Ocean began as early as the late 1950s, much earlier than previously thought.
- The research highlights that Lakshadweep and other Indian Ocean islands have already experienced a rise of 30-40 cm over the past 50 years, posing a serious threat to low-lying islands.
- Findings challenge the assumption that significant sea-level rise only started around 1990, emphasizing urgent need for adaptation strategies for island nations.
About Lakshadweep
- Location: Lakshadweep is a group of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea, off the southwestern coast of India.
- Union Territory: It is India’s smallest Union Territory, covering 32 sq km with 10 inhabited islands.
- Capital: Kavaratti is the administrative capital of Lakshadweep.
- Composition: Includes atolls, reefs, and islets, formed from ancient coral reefs.
- Population: Around 65,000 people (as per 2011 Census), with Malayalam and Mahl as major languages.
- Economy: Predominantly based on fishing, coconut cultivation, and tourism, especially eco-tourism.
- Significance: A crucial biodiversity hotspot, home to rich marine life and coral reefs.
- Environmental Concern: Extremely vulnerable to climate change, sea-level rise, and coral bleaching, threatening habitats and livelihoods.
2. Poompuhar Coast
Why in the News?
- Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology will begin underwater archaeological explorations in the second week of September 2025 between Poompuhar and Nagapattinam.
- The survey aims to investigate submerged remains to uncover Tamil Nadu’s ancient maritime history, including evidence of early Chola capital and medieval trade links.
- Leading institutes such as Indian Maritime University, NIOT, and NIO will collaborate on this project after receiving clearance from the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology.
About Poompuhar (Kaveripoompattinam)
- Ancient Port City: Poompuhar, also called Kaveripoompattinam, was an important port city and capital of the early Cholas.
- Location: Situated on the southeast coast of India in present-day Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu, at the mouth of the Kaveri River.
- Historical Significance: Served as a major trade hub with links to Southeast Asia, mentioned in Sangam literature and Tamil epics like Silappathikaram and Manimekalai.
- Submerged Remains: Large portions of Poompuhar are believed to be submerged due to coastal erosion and sea-level rise, supported by past underwater surveys.
- Past Excavations: Previous surveys (1980s–1990s) by ASI and NIO revealed man-made structures, brick formations, and shipwrecks at depths of 20–30 meters.
- Maritime Trade: Poompuhar was a thriving maritime trade center exporting beads, spices, and textiles during the Sangam and Chola periods.
- Recent Findings: In 2004, INS Darshak discovered a U-shaped structure and remains of a Dutch vessel off Poompuhar coast.
- Cultural Heritage: Known for its Chola architecture, Sangam age urban planning, and ancient harbor, making it a crucial site for understanding early Indian ocean trade.
