Heading Towards A Yellow Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal, the world famous 'epitome of eternal love' is no more white.

Among various adverse impacts of human negligence, Taj Mahal is one of them.
This famed World Heritage Site of India is fast loosing its shine and heading towards yellow.

According to a committee report, headed by Rajya Sabha MP Sitaram Yechury, Taj Mahal, the mausoleum of Mumtaz Mahal and Emperor Shah Jahan is becoming yellowish day by day. Due to large scale pollution made by the nearby small scale industries and automobiles, this popular tourist attraction of Agra city is fast loosing its glory.

Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) which are present in the atmosphere gradually deposits on the body of Taj and turned the white color of monument into yellow. Along with SPM, even some gases like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen emitted by oil refineries are also doing the same.

Apart from pollution, excessive tourism activity and commercialization near Taj Mahal, is also creating havoc for this wonderful monument.

Its high time that India government should take some concrete steps to protect this beautiful legacy of Mughals. Archaeological Survey Of India in collaboration with Pollution Control Board should introduce some important steps so that the original glory of Taj Mahal can be maintained.

By Jolly Mazumdar