Ajanta Caves seepage: ASI places buckets, says paintings safe

Amid heavy rainfall in Maharashtra, a viral video showing buckets placed to collect water seeping from the roof of the Ajanta Caves raised concern on social media. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has clarified that the seepage poses no threat to the historic paintings and sculptures inside the UNESCO World Heritage site.

The video, which surfaced on Monday, showed water dripping from cavities in the rock-cut caves and collected in buckets placed on the floor. Located in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, the Ajanta Caves are renowned for their ancient Buddhist paintings and sculptures dating back to around the 2nd century BCE.

Dr. Shilpa Jamgade, Deputy Superintendent of ASI, told reporters that the issue is a recurring seasonal phenomenon. “Ajanta Caves are rock-cut. When heavy rain occurs, water comes down from the cavities of the rocks. As a precaution, we have to place buckets there so that the tourists do not slip. As of now, there is no danger to the paintings in the caves because of this,” she said.

The ASI official also explained that the seepage is limited to certain parts of the caves and is not a structural concern. The buckets are meant to prevent slippery floors and ensure visitor safety. “We also have drains above the caves that are cleaned periodically so that the water does not enter the cavities,” she added.

The Ajanta Caves, a treasure of ancient Indian art and architecture, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. The caves consist of about 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments, some featuring intricate murals and sculptures that have survived for centuries. Preservation of these fragile artworks is a challenging task, especially during the monsoon months when the region receives heavy rainfall.

ASI said that regular monitoring and maintenance protocols are in place to address water seepage and other environmental impacts. The drains above the caves are part of a broader conservation system designed to divert rainwater away from the rock surfaces. The agency expressed confidence that the drainage measures, along with the temporary buckets, will continue to safeguard the site from any water-related damage.

The clarification comes after the video spread quickly on social media, with many users expressing concern for the preservation of the ancient site. ASI’s prompt response aims to reassure the public that the paintings and sculptures are intact and remain under expert care. The agency also urged visitors to follow safety guidelines while touring the caves during the rainy season.

While seepage in rock-cut structures is not unusual, the ASI’s proactive measures and transparent communication underline its commitment to conserving India’s heritage. The situation will be closely monitored, and further action will be taken if necessary, officials said.