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The iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and architectural brilliance, has faced a recent challenge in the form of water leakage in its main dome. This incident occurred after incessant rainfall lashed parts of Agra over three days, raising concerns about the monument's preservation. Initial suspicions pointed towards a hairline crack in the dome, due to the presence of moisture. However, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), responsible for the upkeep of India's historical monuments, clarified that the leakage was a result of seepage, causing no structural damage to the 17th-century masterpiece.
While the ASI has reassured the public about the monument's safety, the heavy rainfall also caused flooding in the Taj Mahal's garden. A video of the inundated garden, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site's premises, went viral on social media, sparking worry among tourists. The garden near the central tank, situated in front of the main mausoleum, bore the brunt of the downpour, leading to waterlogging. This unexpected sight surprised tourists who captured the scene on their phones.
The heavy rainfall that affected the Taj Mahal also impacted the city of Agra itself. Waterlogging became widespread across the city, with main roads submerged and rainwater entering homes in several areas. One of the National Highways was completely choked with rainwater, hindering traffic flow. Agricultural land was also submerged, causing concern for farmers. The situation prompted the Agra administration to order the closure of all schools due to the hazardous conditions. The Meteorological Department recorded a staggering 151 mm of rainfall in Agra on Thursday, marking the highest rainfall in the region within a 24-hour period in the past eight decades.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of historical monuments to extreme weather events. While the ASI has stated that the Taj Mahal's dome remains structurally sound, the event underscores the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance of these valuable cultural heritage sites. As climate change intensifies and extreme weather events become more frequent, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of our cultural treasures from environmental threats.
Source: Taj Mahal Under Threat? Water Leakage In Main Dome After Heavy Rainfall Raises Concern