ZIRO, Oct 4: A joint official delegation led by Lower Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme on Sunday visited Bamin Michi village to inspect the historic Piichang Putu archaeological site and the sacred Pamu Yalang Viewpoint, with a focus on heritage conservation and sustainable eco-tourism.
The delegation included district BJP general secretary Tamo Obing and District Agriculture Officer Leegang Ania. It was received and guided by Pamu Yalang Welfare Committee chairman Bamin Baro and secretary Bamin Tajang.
At Piichang Putu, located at Nami Tanyang, about 3 km north of Hapoli, the team reviewed archaeological findings and ongoing preservation efforts. The site, situated at an altitude of about 1,546 to 1,562 metres, is regarded as an ancient pottery production centre traditionally associated with Apatani women artisans.
Explorations and excavations undertaken by the Directorate of Research in collaboration with the Pamu Yalang Welfare Society yielded handmade cord-marked potsherds, terracotta coins, iron implements including dinko and dao, hematite and glass beads, charcoal fragments and structural timber posts.
According to scientific AMS radiocarbon dating conducted by Beta Analytic Inc., Miami, the site records three distinct occupational phases - dating from the 5th–7th century AD, the 16th century AD, and the 18th century to the mid-20th century AD. Traditional pottery production at the site is understood to have continued until around 1950.
The delegation subsequently visited Pamu Yalang Viewpoint, also known as “Hawk’s Rock”, located on a hill overlooking Bamin Michi. The viewpoint, which is deeply associated with Apatani oral traditions and cultural identity, offers a panoramic view of the Ziro Valley and has potential for community-led eco-tourism.
During the visit, Perme appreciated the Pamu Yalang Welfare Committee's efforts toward preserving the area's cultural heritage. She stressed the importance of combining scientific archaeological research with oral traditions to document and protect Arunachal's cultural legacy.
She also emphasised the need for community participation in developing tourism infrastructure in a manner that promotes Ziro as a sustainable eco-tourism destination. (DIPRO)