Possible 16th-century brick-lined water tanks (pukhuris) discovered in Deoparbat jungle near Numaligarh (Assam), potentially linked to an Ahom–Kachari historical legend.

About the Discovery

• Location: Deoparbat forest, near Numaligarh, Golaghat, Assam.
• Speared headed by: Local exploration team led by Pranab Jyoti Sharma.
• Nature of structures:
  • Brick-walled water tanks (pukhuris)
  • Located in elevated jungle terrain (Morangi frontier)
• Area previously unexplored archaeologically.

Historical Background: Ahom–Kachari Contest

• The site is linked to a traditional legend involving:
  • The Ahom Kingdom
  • The Kachari (Dimasa) Kingdom

The “Trial Tanks” Legend

• A contest was held to decide control over Morangi region.
• Both sides built water tanks on a hilltop.
• The side that could retain water successfully would win the territory.
• The Ahom representative Koncheng Borpatra Gohain used a special clay sealing technique, ensuring water retention and winning the region.

Important Concepts Explained

• Pukhuri: Traditional Assamese water tank used for storage, irrigation, and rituals.
• Ahom Kingdom: Ruled Assam for nearly 600 years (1228–1826); known for administrative and hydraulic systems.
• Kachari Kingdom: A major tribal kingdom (Dimasa rulers) in Northeast India.
• Morangi Frontier: A historically contested border region between Ahoms and Kacharis.
• Archaeological Verification: Scientific dating (carbon dating, material analysis) needed to confirm authenticity.

Exam Hook: Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding the “Trial Tanks” of Assam:

1. They are associated with a contest between the Ahom and Kachari kingdoms.
2. The tanks were constructed in coastal regions to test naval strength.
3. The outcome depended on the ability to retain water in hilltop tanks.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

One Line Wrap

The discovery of ‘Trial Tanks’ in Assam may bridge legend and history, highlighting indigenous engineering and regional political traditions.

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