Recent heavy rainfall in Agra has resulten the emergence of numerous cracks and damage to various structures within the Taj Mahal, including its walls and floors. Shakeel Chauhan, the national general secretary of the Tourist Guide Federation of India, highlighted that the doors encircling the main dome, which feature inscriptions of Quranic verses in Arabic, have suffered significant wear, leading to the deterioration of the letters.The semi-precious stones that are meticulously inlaid in the walls using the traditional technique of pietra dura are also facing the effects of time and environmental conditions. This deterioration raises concerns about the preservation of the intricate artistry that characterizes this iconic monument.Additionally, in the western section of the site, stones from the flooring in front of the royal mosque have begun to chip away, further indicating the urgent need for restoration efforts. The cumulative impact of these issues underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance to safeguard the Taj Mahal’s structural integrity and historical significance.
Damage is visible on sections of the main mausoleum and the walls of the famous dome.Deepak Dan, who leads the Tourist Guides Welfare Association, questioned the findings of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). He asked what research has been done to support their claim that the monument has no structural problems. The Taj Mahal is a globally recognized site, and any negative news can quickly harm the country’s reputation as a tourist destination.In response, the ASI stated that there are no significant structural issues with the UNESCO World Heritage Site. They addressed concerns about negligence, corruption, and mismanagement of funds for the Taj Mahal’s maintenance, asserting that expenditures are regularly audited, and no issues have been identified in these reviews. Superintending archaeologist Rajkumar Patel emphasized that conservation efforts are an ongoing process.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) stated that there are “no serious structural issues” with the UNESCO World Heritage Site. In response to claims of negligence, corruption, and poor management of funds for the Taj Mahal’s maintenance, ASI emphasized that the funds allocated for its upkeep are regularly audited, and no problems have been identified in these reviews.Rajkumar Patel, the superintending archaeologist, mentioned that conservation efforts are an ongoing process. This indicates that the maintenance of the Taj Mahal is taken seriously and is part of a continuous effort to preserve the site. In a recent social media update, ASI reported that due to heavy rainfall, some water droplets were noticed, but they are being managed. They reassured the public that there are no significant structural concerns. Additionally, a plant that had been growing on the marble wall of the main dome was subsequently removed.
