Published: February 1, 2019
![Archaeologists have uncovered some artefacts dating as far back as 1700 BC near Khanpur. PHOTO: EXPRESS]()
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https://tribune.com.pk/story/1901323/1-uncovering-history-4000-year-old-artefacts-found-near-khanpur/?fbclid=IwAR0Nj37PgfYuXRZJcF1AqkUKcX0HqPPgpNHG3oOfkKZuxp2sql4m3KnuzDc
HARIPUR: Chinese archaeologists have uncovered some artefacts dating as far back as 1700 BC near Khanpur. It suggests that there was civilization in this area long before the Gandhara civilization.
The items discovered include clay pottery, remains of metallic tools and stone items.
The objects link to Harappa and Moen Jo Daro civilization.
Sources disclosed that the exploration was made due to the joint efforts of students from three different Chinese universities along with the Department of Archaeology who have been excavating a historical site near Bhaloot in Khanpur for a while.
Nasir Khan, an official of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, said that they had discovered a large number of pots, metal and stone tools during the excavation.
He added that the best part was that most of the objects had been recovered undamaged.
Nasir hoped that research on the uncovered items would help provide clues to the civilization which lived in this area over a millennia ago — even before the advent of Gandhara Civilization.
The official said that the discovery was the result of the strengthening cultural ties between Pakistan and China in the wake of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
He added that it was due to an agreement for cooperation that Chinese archaeological experts had worked with the provincial government to discover the relics.
“This discovery would not only open new chapters in history but would further help in understanding ancient civilizations,” he added.
He added that the discovery of antique objects is the results of the hard work of the experts while these objects would also be kept in a museum for public display.
The areas of Taxila and Khanpur were a hub for the ancient Gandhara civilization while experts were also keen on excavating at Behmala and its adjoining areas.
He added that there were bright chances that they could discover more objects relating to ancient civilizations from these areas.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 1st, 2019.