Locals, activists welcome State’s move to declare Kunnangudipatti megalithic site as protected monument

Local residents and heritage activists have welcomed the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to officially declare the ancient Megalithic burial sites at Kunnangudipatti near Karungalakudi in Melur taluk of the district as a protected archaeological site.

Locally referred to as “Kurangupadai,” the sprawling 10-acre historical location features a diverse collection of centuries-old Megalithic monuments, including stone circles, stone heaps, dolmens, and menhirs.

The push for official recognition began following detailed local studies conducted by the Madurai Nature and Cultural Trust.

Following continuous appeals from activists and heritage enthusiasts, a team headed by Madurai District Archaeological Officer Ananthi conducted a comprehensive field study and submitted a formal report to the State.

Acting on these findings, the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Religious Endowments issued the order granting the protected status.

Despite welcoming the decision, locals pointed out that the site currently remains entirely open and unprotected, with previous incidents already seeing stones from the ancient structures removed for private construction and domestic use.

Selvaraj, coordinator of the Tungsten Project Opposition and Natural Resource Protection Movement, has urged the State government to take immediate steps to safeguard the remaining monuments by constructing perimeter fencing, installing informational signboards, and establishing continuous monitoring mechanisms.

Additionally, activists have called for systematic archaeological surveys and protection for other neglected regional landmarks, such as the Jain beds, Kallangadu archaeological remains, Aruvimalai inscriptions, and historical sites in Tharkakudi, Sokkalingapuram, Thiruchunai, Kambur, and Kottaimalai.

Heritage experts hope the government will also introduce awareness centres and integrated tourism facilities to help the younger generation engage with the region’s rich history.