Haflong, Oct 16: Scholars from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, have called for greater conservation efforts to safeguard Dima Hasao’s prehistoric stone jar sites following a two-day archaeological field study across the district.
The 48-member delegation, comprising professors, history students and research scholars, visited the prominent stone jar sites of Dobongling, Longmailai and Bolosan as part of a joint study initiative hosted by the Department of Archaeology and the District Museum.
Guided by archaeologist Dr Sringdao Langthasa, the team examined the ancient structures and highlighted the importance of preserving these archaeological remains for future generations and further academic research.
Participating scholars stressed the significance of studying the stone jars first-hand and underscored the need for heightened conservation efforts to protect the sites. The field study also sought to generate greater academic interest in the region’s archaeological heritage and encourage deeper research into the ancient structures.
Dr Langthasa expressed optimism about future archaeological investigations in Dima Hasao, noting that additional undiscovered stone jar sites may exist in the district.
Located around 40 km from Haflong, the Dobongling site was first recorded by British administrators in 1928. It houses some of the largest documented stone jars in the region, measuring up to 23 feet in circumference.
The Longmailai site, also known as Longdisangbill, is situated around 40 km from Haflong and contains 97 stone jars of varying forms, including cylindrical and pear-shaped structures.
Meanwhile, Bolosan, located approximately 30 km from Haflong, has the densest concentration of stone jars in the district, with more than 500 artefacts.