Agra, Sep 23 (V7N)- The Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world and a symbol of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is facing increasing concerns over its preservation. The iconic monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has suffered damage due to heavy rains in Agra last week, revealing cracks on its walls and floors.
According to a report by The Times of India, continuous rainfall in the region exposed the vulnerabilities of the structure, with tree branches growing on the Taj Mahal itself. This has sparked fresh criticism regarding the maintenance of this architectural marvel, which draws millions of tourists every year.
Recent rainfall in Delhi and Agra has broken previous records, leading to widespread disruptions, including school closures. The deteriorating condition of the Taj Mahal has raised alarms, with many pointing to the need for an improved water drainage system to safeguard the monument.
Rajkumar Patel, Superintendent of the Archaeological Department of Agra Circle, noted that not only the Taj Mahal but other historical monuments in the region are also suffering from the accumulation of dust, water damage, and interference from birds. He explained that growing plants are removed when they reach 5 to 8 centimetres, as larger roots could penetrate deeper into the structure, causing further damage. Despite the use of herbicides and regular pruning, the threat to the architecture remains.
Shakil Chauhan, General Secretary of the Tourist Guides Federation of India, expressed further concern over the erosion of the semi-precious stones that embellish the monument and the wearing away of Quranic verses inscribed on the doors surrounding the main dome. He also highlighted that sections of the floor in front of the Royal Mosque and parts of the original mausoleum have been scarred.
In response, the Archaeological Survey of India has stated that no serious structural issues have been detected and that regular audits are conducted on the funds spent for the Taj Mahal’s maintenance. So far, these audits have not raised any major concerns.
However, the issue has gained political traction. On September 19, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticised the Yogi Adityanath government over the poor maintenance of the monument. Sharing a viral video of a tree growing from the dome, Yadav warned that such growth could cause cracks in the structure. He further alleged that the metal on the main dome’s urn is rusting and that water is leaking from the dome, all of which could accelerate the decay of the monument.
Yadav remarked that the Taj Mahal should remain a “living and active example,” not just a historical relic, and called for more urgent measures to preserve its integrity.
As one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the Taj Mahal’s current condition has raised widespread concern, with conservationists, politicians, and the public calling for more rigorous efforts to maintain and protect the monument for future generations.
