Sandstone pillar fragment worth Tk 1.6 crore recovered in Joypurhat

An ancient sandstone pillar fragment, believed to date back to the 8th-9th century, has been recovered from a pond in Joypurhat and handed over to the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).

The 320-kg archaeological artifact has an estimated value of Tk 1.6 crore, according to a preliminary assessment by the Department of Archaeology, the Joypurhat 20 BGB Battalion said in a press release issued here this afternoon.

According to the release, BGB received information through a local public representative about the planned handing over of the ancient artifact.

Later, a special patrol team of 20 BGB, with approval from higher authorities, went to the spot and took the artifact into its custody.

Locals said an organized smuggling gang had concealed the artifact in a pond beside a local playground for smuggling purposes.

The matter was subsequently reported to Niamatpur Police Station and officials of the Paharpur Buddhist Vihara Archaeological Museum in Badalgachhi, Naogaon.

A representative of the Department of Archaeology was present when the artifact was handed over to BGB and conducted a preliminary examination.

Later, officials of Paharpur Buddhist Vihara under the Department of Archaeology conducted a detailed examination and confirmed that the stone was part of a sandstone pillar dating back to the 8th-9th century.

They also issued a certificate confirming its archaeological significance.

The recovered artifact is being processed for preservation at the Paharpur Buddhist Vihara Archaeological Museum in Badalgachhi, BGB said.