TIMERGARA, July 3: Precious antiques and an ancient cave have been discovered at two different sites in the Lower Dir district.

The archaeology department has taken the sites in its possession and started investigation to find out the exact age of the antiques.

One Nosher Khan of village Chargo Shalkandai in the Munda police jurisdiction, was ploughing his fields when he hit upon the antiques.

The locals said that Nosher Khan was trying to hide the antiques, but some people brought the matter to the police notice, which in turn informed the archaeology department.

Later, the director of Dir Museum in Chakdara, Zainul Wahab, accompanied by FC and police personnel, visited the area and inspected the site.

When asked, he informed Dawn that the antiques dated back to 400 BC. There are expectations of more discoveries of relics from both the sites, he said, adding that the antiques had been handed over to Dir museum.

Similarly, an ancient cave has been discovered near a stone-crushing plant in Chakdara. The condition of stones shows that the cave is thousands of years old.

Zainul Wahab said the cave, which is 500 meters long and eight feet high, had crystal walls and natural fountains.

It is expected the decision on shifting of the Dir museum from Chakdara would be deferred after the discovery of these antiques and the cave.