PANAJI
After the most controversial Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project that would require the dredging in the Sethusamudram Sea between India and Sri Lanka, went into cold storage, a debate had started on the authenticity, origin, structure and timeline of Ram Setu, ending in the underwater survey and exploration of the region to determine how and when Ram Setu was formed. The survey expedition that began in 2021 may take two more years before it completes and comes out with its findings.Speaking on the survey status of Ram Setu, director of CSIR-NIO, Sunil Kumar Singh disclosed on Wednesday that the inspection of Ram Setu is currently going on. “CSIR-NIO will undertake a drilling operation at the site of the Ram Setu in the seas at Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu and collect samples to study the phenomenon. Due to the rise in the sea level and accumulation of sand, the said site is almost covered, however, this project will be complete within the specific time limit, in the next two years,” assured Singh.
“Since the sea level has risen and covered most of the portion of the Ram Setu, we would be undertaking a drilling project in the area and collect samples,” said Singh. These samples will help in deciding the specific findings about the age of the Ram Setu and whether it is a natural or manmade structure. The research and exploration project on Ram Setu is expected to stretch for the next two years before it reaches completion."
So far, two field trips have been conducted and geo-physical mapping has been completed. These findings helped us to locate the exact location of the Ram Setu, as currently it is covered with sand and submerged in the water. The sea level which was low earlier keeps rising, making it difficult for the survey team to carry on its operation.
