Survey of stepwells, historic wells to be undertaken in Maharashtra: Shelar

Shelar chaired a meeting with experts under the cultural department to review ongoing efforts for the conservation and preservation of these ancient water structures

Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar (Archive)

Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar on Saturday announced that a district-wise survey will soon be undertaken to document ‘baravs’ (stepwells) and historic ‘wells’ of Maharashtra, which hold immense cultural and historical importance.

Shelar chaired a meeting with experts under the cultural department to review ongoing efforts for the conservation and preservation of these ancient water structures. He said preliminary findings indicate there are over 3,000 stepwells in the state that are of historic value, with documented references dating back to ancient times.

“These stepwells hold immense historical significance. The architectural techniques used in their construction are rare and unique even globally. They also play a vital role in water conservation and management, and their water must be put to proper use. Hence, a comprehensive registry of stepwells across all districts in the state is necessary,” Shelar said.

Accordingly, a new government resolution will soon be issued with clear objectives and purposes for the preservation, conservation and utility of these stepwells. In the first phase, district-wise surveys will be conducted, followed by comprehensive documentation in the second phase. The findings will also be entered into official government records.

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