STORY: Protecting ancient grottoes at Kizil Caves in China's Xinjiang
SHOOTING TIME: Recent footage 
DATELINE: Oct. 20, 2024
LENGTH: 00:02:00
LOCATION: BAICHENG, China
CATEGORY: CULTURE

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves
2. SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ZHANG YUDONG, Xinhua correspondent
3. various of the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves
4. SOUNDBITE 2 (English): MIAO LIHUI, Deputy head of Kizil Grottoes research institute
5. SOUNDBITE 3 (English): ZHANG YUDONG, Xinhua correspondent
6. SOUNDBITE 4 (English): MIAO LIHUI, Deputy head of Kizil Grottoes research institute
7. various of the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves

STORYLINE:

The Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves are among China's earliest large-scale grotto groups.

Built in the third century, the Kizil Caves are a typical Qiuci grotto, with 4,000 square meters of frescoes and colorful sculptures.

SOUNDBITE 1 (English): ZHANG YUDONG, Xinhua correspondent
"The murals in the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves are so beautiful, but their protection also faces challenges."

SOUNDBITE 2 (English): MIAO LIHUI, Deputy head of Kizil Grottoes research institute
"The first step is rock mass reinforcement, as the rock itself supports the existence of the caves. If the rock is damaged by natural causes like earthquakes, it can harm the structure and lead to the collapse of the caves. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in reinforcing these rock masses. The second phase of reinforcement for the Gudong area is now mostly complete, and the second phase for the Guxi area is in its latter stages.
Secondly, regarding the murals, two phases of restoration work have already been carried out at Kizil. The main threats to the murals have been effectively controlled. The next step will likely involve strengthening early-warning systems to shift our efforts from rescue-based protection to more preventative measures."

SOUNDBITE 3 (English): ZHANG YUDONG, Xinhua correspondent
"In order to protect these murals, the (relevant) department is using modern technology to digitally protect the grottoes."

SOUNDBITE 4 (English): MIAO LIHUI, Deputy head of Kizil Grottoes research institute
"By documenting its condition while it still exists and is relatively young, we are essentially recording as much of the historical information it holds as possible. In a way, this helps extend its life and enables it to play a better role in future preservation, promotion, and research."

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Baicheng, China.
(XHTV)