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Scientists Discover 200km Ancient River Under Prayagraj
12 May
Summary
- A buried palaeo river channel has been confirmed near Prayagraj by scientists.
- The underground river is 4-5 km wide, 200 km long, and lies 10-15 meters below ground.
- This discovery provides scientific evidence for the mythical Saraswati River.
A significant palaeo river channel, buried 10-15 meters below the surface, has been scientifically confirmed near Prayagraj. This ancient river system, discovered by CSIR-NGRI scientists, is approximately 4-5 kilometers wide and extends for 200 kilometers, flowing between the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. Its dimensions and meandering patterns suggest it flowed contemporaneously with the visible rivers.
While direct observation is limited in urban Prayagraj, the palaeo-river's presence has been verified through drilling and advanced geophysical techniques. Scientists suggest this buried channel is crucial for water management, potentially aiding in groundwater recharge due to its porous nature and hydraulic link with the Ganga and Yamuna.
The discovery aligns with mythological accounts of the Saraswati River, offering a physical dimension to the legend, though scientists refrain from definitively labeling it as such. This finding is vital for understanding hydrological dynamics and planning long-term water security in the Ganga plain.
