Five shrine rooms exist in the premises out of which one has been closed down. Accordingly, work is being carried out in the remaining shrine rooms. Most murals are cracked and peeling while the statues are discolouring, sources added.

The Archaeological Department therefore, has taken steps to protect the archaeological value of Dambulla rock temple.

However, residents and experts in the area said the steps taken by the Archaeological Department to conserve the Dambulla rock temple, is not sufficient. They add that the project needs to be expedited.