Ahmedabad, Gujarat – A research expedition turned tragic on Wednesday morning (November 27, 2024), when Surabhi Verma (23), a PhD scholar from IIT Delhi, lost her life, and three others sustained injuries in a cave-in at the Lothal archaeological site, located about 80 km from Ahmedabad.

The team, comprising two researchers each from IIT Delhi and IIT Gandhinagar, had been collecting soil samples near the Harappan-era port town when the accident occurred. According to Superintendent of Police (Rural) Om Prakash Jat, the researchers entered a 10-foot-deep pit dug for the study when its walls suddenly collapsed, burying them under the soil.

“Surabhi Verma died on the spot. The three others were rescued and rushed to the hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition,” the officer said.

Lothal, an important site of the ancient Indus Valley civilisation, is a hub for archaeological studies and research. The accident has raised concerns about safety protocols during fieldwork in such locations.
Authorities are investigating the incident to prevent similar tragedies in the future.