Cave paintings are deteriorating due to human presence: Walter Spink
Internationally acclaimed archaeologist, Walter Spink said this using scientific evidence to prove during a talk, held at Mumbai University’s Vidya Nagari campus last Saturday. The increasing human presence around these ancient archaeological sites that are the cornerstones of Maharashtra’s tourism, is posing to be a huge a threat.
The condition of famous Ajanta, Ellora and Elephanta Caves is deteriorating at a fast pace. Internationally acclaimed archaeologist, Walter Spink said this using scientific evidence to prove during a talk, held at Mumbai University’s Vidya Nagari campus last Saturday. The increasing human presence around these ancient archaeological sites that are the cornerstones of Maharashtra’s tourism, is posing a huge threat.
Spink while talking about different aspects of the caves said that even the gases we exhale cause archaic colours and paintings to corrode faster. Apart from that, the perfumes, deodorants and other chemicals that we use on our bodies have an acidic reaction on the colours.
At the talk, titled Rock-Cut Caves of Maharashtra, Spink raised concerns about the preservation work being done on these caves, while depicting an ancient map of cultures and kingdoms which rules India in the 5th and 6th century. Spink talked about how things like monkey droppings, chewing gum, corrosion from acidic reactions, wind, moisture and dust have taken their toll on the condition of the cave.The US-based historian appealed to the state government to take steps to prevent further damage to these caves. Spink emphasised that caves stand a good chance of survival, if they are a part of a protected landscape.
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