Special Story: How India’s ‘fossil village’ is losing its ancient heritage, why is it important to know?

New Delhi: There is a small village in Lahaul-Spiti district located in Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The name of this village is Langja. It is also called the ‘fossil village’ of India. This village is full of marine fossils millions of years old. These fossils are proof that these high snow-covered Himalayan mountains were once the ocean floor, where marine life flourished. But increasing tourism and the sale of these fossils by local people is posing a threat to this unique heritage.

The Tethys Sea once flowed

In Langja, where barren hills and dusty roads are visible today, the Tethys Sea once roared there. About 40 million years ago, the collision of continental plates retreated the Tethys Sea and formed the Himalayas. In this process, marine life became captured in the rocks in the form of fossils. The fossils found today at Langja, particularly the remains of marine mollusks from the Jurassic period, 164 to 145 million years ago, represent an invaluable chapter in Earth’s history.

Local people are highly dependent on tourism

The means of livelihood in Langja village, nestled in the shadow of a huge Buddha statue, are limited. The people here are heavily dependent on tourism. Tourists coming here often see local people selling marine fossils in baskets. A local woman says, ‘Earlier these were easily available, but now they have to be brought from long distances.’ She sells each fossil for Rs 50, but is also ready to give a discount if you buy more than one.

Tourists look for fossils

The increasing number of tourists in Langja, Ladakh has become a matter of concern. Especially the number of Indian tourists has increased. According to Block Development Council member Angchuk Takpa, ‘The number of Indian tourists here has increased since the lockdown was lifted and road connectivity improved. They often start looking for fossils, whereas foreign tourists never do so. Takpa says that due to this demand of tourists, now the children and women of the village have also started selling fossils. Local people fear that this may damage the natural heritage of Langja.

Threat from climate change also

Climate change has also increased this problem. Due to less snowfall in the area, more fossils are coming to the surface, increasing their lootability. Takpa explains, ‘When the snow melts, the soil beneath it shifts. As a result, fossils buried below come up.’ According to a report, the snow covered area in Lahaul-Spiti has decreased by 18.5%.

the museum is ready

Takpa and other local administrators have recommended a ban on the sale of fossils. he/she has also proposed to set up a fossil museum in the village to preserve these priceless heritages and to educate people about them. After much delay, the construction work of the museum has finally started.

Preserve heritage for future generations

This museum will not only help in preserving these ancient remains but can also become a sustainable source of livelihood for the people of Langja. This will provide an opportunity to tourists to understand the importance of fossils and contribute to their conservation. It is the responsibility of all of us to ensure that these priceless heritages remain safe for future generations.