Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
The world heritage Ellora and Ajanta Caves, famous for their ancient sculpture, architecture and painting, are now facing a new threat due to bee hives. The bees have built their hives in various parts of the caves, forcing tourists to visit these heritage sites with extreme caution.
In the past week, two incidents of bee attacks on tourists occurred at the Ellora Caves. In one such attack, a 79-year-old tourist from London was stung over 50 times on his face and different parts of his body. The tourist received treatment in the GMCH. Environmental experts believe the growing number of bees may be due to the dense vegetation, flowering plants, and availability of water around the caves, which create a favourable environment for bees. Despite this, there has been no concrete action from the authorities to address this growing danger, leading to dissatisfaction among the public.
Moving bee hives without causing harm
To tackle this issue, experts have suggested that the bee hives can be relocated without causing harm to the bees by seeking help from beekeeping specialists. It is hoped that the Department of Archaeological Survey of India and the Department of Forest will take measures to remove the bee hives.
Tourists should take precautions
Avoid speaking loudly or making noise in the caves.
Do not stop at or touch areas where bee hives are located.
If attacked by bees, remain calm, avoid swatting, and move to a safe place.
Where are the bee hives?
Two bee hives in Cave No. 16 at Ellora.
Five hives in front of Cave No. 10 at Ajanta.
Two hives in front of Cave No. 26 at Ajanta.
Priority should be given to tourist safety
The Secretary of Aurangabad Tourist Guide Welfare Association, Umesh Jadhav said, “ Bee hives can be seen at various locations in both Ellora and Ajanta caves. Given the incidents in recent days, tourists, cave staff, local vendors, and guides are all working cautiously. To avoid any major accidents in the future, the Archaeological Survey of India must take prompt action to address the issue.”