CG: Park unveils secrets of 293-million-yr-old marine fossils

RAIPUR,INDIA: Chhattisgarh is known for its natural beauty, but now, there’s a new gem that goes beyond the typical tourist spots, the Gondwana Marine Fossil Park located in the Manendragarh-Chirmi-Bharatpur district.

The park holds the title of Asia’s largest marine fossil garden, offering a rare glimpse into Earth's ancient history from 293 million years ago—an era when the region was submerged under a cold sea. This fossil park not only narrates the stories of the distant past but also offers a global opportunity to recognize India’s rich geological heritage. The Government of Chhattisgarh is dedicated to showcasing the treasure to the world, aiming to transform it into a key hub for scientific tourism.

The discovery of the park traces back to 1954, when geologist S.K. Ghosh uncovered it during coal mining activities. The park is not only notable for its vast size, but it also holds the distinction of being India’s only marine fossil park with the status of a National Geological Memorial. Fossils of marine organisms, including Dwipatali (Bylev) organisms, gastropods, brachiopods, crinoids, and bryozoans, have been unearthed here. These fossils belong to the talcir structure and provide insight into the early stages of the Permian era.

Researchers theorize that the area was once submerged under the sea following a rapid rise in sea levels due to melting glaciers. This rise led to the flourishing of marine life in the region. Over time, as the water levels receded, these creatures were buried in rocks, where they eventually fossilized over millions of years.

The Gondwana Marine Fossil Park is not just significant for Chhattisgarh or India; it holds global geological importance. Similar fossils have been discovered in Brazil’s Parana Basin, New South Wales in Australia, Alexander Island in Antarctica, and the Karu Basin in South Africa.

The park plays a pivotal role in understanding the geological history of the ancient Gondwana supercontinent. However, it faces threats from changing weather patterns and human activities. To preserve the unique heritage, the Chhattisgarh government has taken proactive measures. In August 2021, the area was inspected by scientists from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleosciences, as well as officials from the Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Board and the Forest Department. In March 2022, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department officially declared it the state's first Marine Fossil Park.

Under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the Chhattisgarh government is making significant strides in developing the fossil park. A budget of ₹41.99 lakh has been allocated for its beautification, and plans are underway to enhance the park’s infrastructure, making it more accessible for both tourism and scientific research.