The ongoing excavation of an ancient stepwell in Chandausi, Sambhal, has led to the discovery of two new corridors, increasing interest in this historical site. A total of three corridors have been uncovered so far. The excavation, which began in the Lakshmanganj area, has revealed significant findings, including a basement and several room structures, indicating the stepwell's architectural complexity.
Remarkable elements of the ancient structure have come to light, featuring intricate designs and foundations of rooms, suggesting it was an important site in the past. Authorities are continuing their work, digging up to five feet deep, with experts believing that more discoveries are imminent.
This ongoing effort by the Archaeological Department is expected to provide deeper insights into the region's rich history, with further findings likely to shed light on the ancient civilization that constructed the stepwell.
In a separate development, evidence suggesting that an ancient Hindu temple once occupied the site has emerged. According to Acharya Satyendra Maharaj, Chief Priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, the excavation has revealed a tunnel and significant artifacts supporting the existence of a temple that was allegedly occupied and later transformed into an Islamic structure.
Manual labor has been employed to continue excavation work after machinery faced difficulties. Sambhal's District Magistrate, Rajendra Pensiya, confirmed the discovery of a 'baoli' (stepwell) covering 400 square meters, which includes chambers made of marble and bricks. The structure is estimated to be over 150 years old.
As the excavation progresses, an ASI team has also surveyed the Kalki Vishnu temple in the area, inspecting multiple shrines and wells. The findings from these surveys are anticipated to provide further historical context.