1.2. Cistern and Water Storage (1960-1961)

And whereas in 60-61 a rock-cut cistern was cleared of debris for the storage of water and the excavation of a rock-cut drain on the top of the cave was started the work.

In the year 1960-1961, an important project took place where a rock-cut cistern needed to be cleared of debris. This cistern is essentially a large underground reservoir or storage area for water. The removal of debris was crucial for the cistern to function properly. Simultaneously, excavations were being conducted on a rock-cut drain located on top of the cave to ensure water drainage. This drain would help manage water flow and prevent flooding, thereby preserving the structural integrity of the cave.

Think of the cistern like a big underground water tank that you might find in your house. Just like you would need to clean out a tank to ensure it can hold water effectively, the archaeologists had to clear any obstacles that were blocking the cistern so that it could be used for water storage again.

Whereas in 2001 onwards, the deposit work is awarded to GSI Geological Survey of India towards the cost of geological and geotechnical and geophysical and geoenvironmental studies of the Pitalkhora caves and the surroundings.

In 2001, a significant advancement occurred where the Geological Survey of India was commissioned to conduct various studies around the Pitalkhora caves. These studies were necessary to understand the geological, geotechnical, geophysical, and geoenvironmental aspects of the site. The goal was to assess risks and potential impacts on the cave structures and their surroundings, providing a scientific basis for any conservation efforts needed.

Imagine if you wanted to build a new playground in a park. Before adding swings and slides, you would first check the ground to make sure it’s stable and safe. Similarly, the studies by the Geological Survey of India were like checking if the ground was suitable for preserving the caves and preventing any damage.

So, now you can see that they have started looking at how the edges of the roof and the structure of the vertical aspect and the roof aspect are merging that is a lot of damage have occurred, and there might be a chance that it might collapse at any time.

During the assessment of the cave structures, experts discovered that the roof and vertical walls were not stable. They noticed significant damage, which raised concerns about potential collapse. To prevent this, structural support systems were initiated, addressing the areas that were vulnerable and implementing solutions to reinforce the cave's integrity.

It's similar to how an old tree house might lean dangerously to one side. If you notice it's tilting, you would add some braces or supports to hold it up straight, ensuring it doesn't fall. The experts took similar action to support the caves and prevent any collapses.

So, this is how the restoration process has been done. And on the flooring part you know because there has been some times, it has been chipped out so that is where they start making some kind of flooring restoration has been done.

The restoration process involved using scaffolding—a framework that supports workers and materials during construction or repair. This is critical in conservation projects where it's essential to avoid damaging existing structures while making repairs. Part of the restoration included fixing the flooring that had suffered chips and damage over time, ensuring the site was safe and well-preserved for future visitors.

Consider how you might use a ladder to reach high places safely while painting a room. Instead of just standing on furniture, the ladder provides stable support. Scaffolding works in the same way for the cave restorers, allowing them to safely navigate and repair without causing harm to the delicate structures.

The paintings are the most important elements that is where they keep check to the risk. So, how to restore these paintings that is one of the biggest challenges.

The paintings within the caves are considered crucial elements of cultural heritage. Protecting them from deterioration is a significant challenge. Experts must find ways to restore and stabilize these artworks without damaging them further, which requires collaboration with specialists in chemistry and material science to ensure the correct methods are used.

Imagine an old family photo that is faded and peeling. You would need to be very careful about how to restore it—perhaps using acid-free materials or working with a restoration expert. In the same way, experts in the caves must carefully plan how to clean and restore the paintings to preserve their history without causing harm.

So, then they started making a kind of channel to divert this water so that at least it can protect the water seepage in the caves.

To counter issues of water seepage in the caves, a channel was designed to redirect water away from the cave structures. This intervention was crucial because uncontrolled water flow can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and deterioration of both the cave and its artistic features. A thorough understanding of the topography helped plan this channel effectively.

Think about how gutters work on a house. They direct rainwater away from the foundation to prevent flooding or water damage. Similarly, creating channels helps protect the caves from excess water that could cause harm.

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