Why in the News?
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) discovered a 1,500 year old stepped reservoir on Elephanta Island near Mumbai, indicating advanced water management and maritime trade.
Key Findings
- Age: ~1,500 years old
- Shape: T shaped stepped reservoir
- Size:
- Length: 14.7 metres
- Width: 6.7 to 10.8 metres
- Depth: 5 metres excavated
- 20 steps discovered so far
Why Reservoir Was Built
- Elephanta Island is rocky
- Rainwater quickly flows into sea
- Reservoir helped:
- Store rainwater
- Ensure water supply
- Shows advanced ancient engineering.
Other Discoveries
Excavation yielded:
- Brick structure (possibly dyeing vat)
- Terracotta figurines
- Glass and stone bangles
- Carnelian and quartz beads
- Storage pots
- Stone anchors
Evidence of Maritime Trade
- 3,000 amphorae sherds from Mediterranean
- Torpedo jars from West Asia and Mesopotamia
- Used to store:
- Wine
- Oil
- Fish sauce
- Shows trade with Rome and West Asia.
Coins Discovered
- 60 coins found
- Copper coins of Kalachuri ruler Krishnaraja
- Period: 6th century CE
About Elephanta Island
- Located near Mumbai coast
- Known for Elephanta Caves
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Period: 5th century CE
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
| [2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs? (a) Dholavira (b) Kalibangan (c) Rakhigarhi (d) Ropar |
