Incessant rain in Agra over the past few days has raised concerns about the safety of the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most iconic monuments. Water seepage was reported from the main dome of the structure, prompting immediate action from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Officials suspect that a hairline crack in the dome’s stonework might have caused the leakage, leading to moisture inside the mausoleum. The garden near the central tank, a major attraction for tourists, was also inundated, adding to concerns.
Superintending archaeologist Rajkumar Patel confirmed that the ASI is conducting a probe into the leakage and has deployed a surveillance team to monitor the situation. Preliminary investigations suggest the seepage is not continuous, but repairs will be carried out as a precautionary measure. Patel reassured that the leakage has not caused any structural damage to the monument, and the garden will be restored once the rains subside. A drone camera was used to inspect the dome, and officials are taking preventive steps to avoid further damage.
The heavy rainfall, recorded at 151 mm within 24 hours, is the highest Agra has seen in over eight decades. Aside from the Taj Mahal, other historical landmarks like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri also suffered minor damage. Videos of the inundated Taj Mahal garden circulating on social media have stirred curiosity among locals and tourists. While the rain brought inconvenience, it also highlighted the vulnerability of these heritage sites to extreme weather conditions.
Tourism experts are urging authorities to take swift action to protect the Taj Mahal. The monument not only holds cultural and historical significance but also plays a crucial role in the local economy, employing thousands in the tourism sector. With waterlogged roads and widespread flooding across Agra, there is increasing pressure on the administration to ensure both the safety of the monument and the well-being of the city’s residents.
