Deterioration of World Heritage Cave Monument of Ajanta, India: Insights to Important Biological Agents and Environment Friendly Solutions

A light-based approach emerges as a promising, environmentally friendly solution to combat insect pests that are rapidly degrading the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ajanta Caves. This study highlights the significant impact of biological agents, particularly insects and microbes, on cave monuments like Ajanta, which face increasing stress due to anthropogenic pressures and changing climatic conditions. The research emphasizes the need for integrated pest management strategies to protect these invaluable archaeological sites without disrupting surrounding biodiversity or ecosystems. By focusing on light-based interventions, the study offers a novel method to preserve cave paintings and other heritage structures while maintaining ecological balance.

Singh, S., Dhyani, S., Kokate, P., Chakraborty, S., & Nimsadkar, S. (2019). Deterioration of World Heritage Cave Monument of Ajanta, India: Insights to Important Biological Agents and Environment Friendly Solutions. Heritage, 2(3), 2545–2554. https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage2030156