Discovery of an 1,500 Year Old Reservoir in Elephanta Island

Why in News?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has unearthed a 1,500‑year‑old stepped reservoir on Elephanta Island, off the Mumbai coast.

Elephanta Island

• Located in – Mumbai Harbour, Maharashtra.
• It is also known as Gharapuri ("City of Caves").
• UNESCO Heritage Site – Elephanta Caves (5^th century) are located on Elephanta Island.
• It features massive rock-cut sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva is designated as UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Historic Ports – Originally comprised 3 key maritime localities
  • Morabandar,
  • Rajbandar, and
  • Shethbandar.
• Global Trade – It served as an ancient hub linking India to Rome and Mesopotamia as early as the 2^nd century CE.

Key Findings of the recent discovery

• Stepped Reservoir – Reveal an advanced water management system essential for its role in maritime commerce.
  • Estimated age – 1,500 years.
  • Dimensions – 14.7 m long, 6.7 m & 10.8 m wide, T‑shaped.
  • Built - Stone blocks ferried from the mainland.
  • Depth excavated – 5 m, exposing 20 steps.
  • Purpose – Water storage on rocky terrain with poor soil absorption.
• Other Excavated Artifacts –
  • Brick structure (possibly a dyeing vat for textiles).
  • Storage pot, terracotta figurines, glass & stone bangles.
  • Beads of carnelian and quartz.
  • Stone anchors indicating maritime activity.
  • 3,000 amphorae sherds (Roman‑style jars) and torpedo jars from West Asia (Mesopotamia) – used for wine, oil, fish sauce.
  • 60 silver, lead, and copper coins belonging to Krishnaraja (Kalachuri Dynasty).
• Coins of Krishnaraja – Kalachuri Dynasty (6^th CE)
  • Features - Obverse – Seated bull motif and Reverse – Temple symbol with legend “Sri Krishnaraja.”
  • Confirms Kalachuri presence and influence in western India during this period.

Reference

The Hindu | Elephanta Islands