Surat - Surat Municipal Corporation made a remarkable discovery as 14 historical cannons were unearthed from its plot near the old Bombay Market. The cannons were discovered during excavation work for the reconstruction of the Anti-Encroachment Department's office.
Surat, renowned for its historical significance, has previously yielded many treasures from its fort on the banks of the Tapi river and its environs. Unfortunately, many of these items have not been adequately preserved.
Approximately a decade ago, several ancient cannons were discovered during excavation near the Surat fort. These cannons were initially housed in the plot of the Municipal Corporation's Encroachment Department near the old Bombay Market. However, due to neglect, the cannons were left exposed to the elements, resulting in their deteriorated condition.
It is believed that the same cannons unearthed a decade ago were subsequently relocated by the Municipal Corporation to different locations before being stored in the plot where they were recently rediscovered. Over time, knowledge of the cannons' whereabouts was lost as many officers and employees familiar with their history retired. Plans are now underway to retrieve and preserve these artifacts, which are a testament to Surat's historical and archaeological significance as a city that endured invasions by the Mughals and the British.
