Brick structure found in Kollidam riverbed traced to Sangam period, was used for water management: T.N. Archaeology Dept.
The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology has identified a brick structure in the Kollidam riverbed as a water regulation system dating back to the Sangam period. The discovery was made after receding water levels allowed experts to conduct sonar and underwater surveys.
Why it matters
This finding provides significant new evidence regarding the advanced hydraulic engineering and water management capabilities of ancient Tamil civilizations.
A detailed study by the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) has concluded that the brick structure exposed recently on the bed of the Kollidam river at Koogur near Lalgudi in Tiruchi district, close to the ancient Kallanai dam, is a Sangam-period water regulation structure.
A team of experts from TNSDA, comprising V.P. Yathees Kumar, Joint Director; K. Rajan, Academic Adviser; Prabhakaran, Assistant Director; and Vasanthkumar, Archaeological Officer, conducted the study on August 22 and 23, 2026.
Mr. Kumar told The Hindu that the structure became partly exposed after the water level in the Kollidam receded last month. The team used sonar to identify any submerged extensions or other structural remains. Trained divers examined the underwater portions to document the dimensions and construction technique of the brick structure.
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