A set of safety protection system, with total investment of 19 million yuan (about US$2.38 million), will start operation for the world renowned Dunhuang Grottoes this year, according to sources with the Dunhuang Research Institute.

Ma Xueli, an official in charge of the grottoes safety, said yesterday that the safety protection project is expected to complete within two years, and the grottoes safety will be largely reinforced.

Fireproofing, and wireless monitoring facilities were already put into the grottoes last year.

Dating from 336 AD., the Mogao Grottoes, also known as the Caves of 1,000 Buddhas, is listed a world heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

A total of 735 caves have been found so far and frescos on the inside wall cover an area of 45,000 square meters, and 2,000 colored Buddha statues.

(Xinhua News Agency February 6, 2006)