Rapid urbanisation in Kancheepuram district coupled with ignorance of the local people is a real threat to valuable megalithic sites. Objects like stone circles, dolmens, stone mounds or Cairn on the surface level hold the key to identification of megalithic burial sites. If these symbols are damaged, disrupted or removed, it could prove to be impossible to identify an Iron Age burial site. Speaking to Express, Sathyabama Badrinath, Superintending Archaeologist, ASI, Chennai Circle said if surface indicators like stone circles were damaged or construction of buildings happened in the area, it could permanently preempt the opportunity for identification and later excavation of burial sites. “These are the symbols evidencing the burials. Prospects of damage to such symbols is a cause of worry,” she said. Asked on the steps taken by the ASI to sensitise local authorities and the people on the importance of such overground symbols and the sites, she said awareness programmes were being held on a regular basis. “We have prepared detailed maps indicating the presence of megalithic sites. This has been circulated to all municipal and civic officials. Also, we hold awareness programmes for the locals.”Admitting that rapid urbanisation that is being witnessed now is a real threat, she, however, said that the ASI wanted a fine balance between growth and protection of archaeological sites. “Growth is important. But equally important is protection of heritage sites that could provide answers to riddles of the past.”Formerly epigraphist with the State Archaeology Department, S Ramachandran wanted the government to take steps to go in for more excavations and record them using latest technology before urbanisation wipes out valuable information.“Not in Kanchi alone, excavations should be done in Madurai, Karur and Tiruchy too, which served as capitals for Chola, Chera and the Pandiyas. Before urbanisation kills precious information steps should be taken to protect and record them,” he urged.
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