The Yamuna River, swollen by heavy monsoon rains, has reached the outer walls of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, raising concerns about potential damage to the 17th-century marble mausoleum. The river's water level has surged in recent days due to unusually intense rainfall in northern India, with Uttar Pradesh receiving over 108% of its average monsoon rainfall since June 1st.
According to the Central Water Commission (CWC) of India, the Yamuna's level near the Taj Mahal reached 499 feet late Tuesday, significantly exceeding the warning level of 151.4 meters. The danger level is 152.4 meters. Reports indicate that this is the first time in 45 years, since 1978, that the river has come this close to the monument, which was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Images from the site show the Taj Mahal's red sandstone boundary wall engulfed by muddy, debris-filled water, although the mausoleum itself remains untouched. The CWC recorded the highest flood level near the monument in 1978 at 154.76 meters.
While officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), responsible for the Taj Mahal's upkeep, have stated there's no immediate threat to the monument, they acknowledge the need for reassessment if the water level remains high or if rainfall intensifies. However, other historical sites and gardens near the Taj Mahal, situated closer to the riverbank, have suffered submersion and damage. These include the Itimad-ud-Daulah's tomb (often referred to as the "Baby Taj") and the Mehtab Bagh, both dating back to the 17th century. The Mehtab Bagh's structure has been compromised, and its garden lies completely submerged.
Despite the rising waters, tourists continue to visit the Taj Mahal. One visitor, Mathew Kreton, a student from Switzerland, expressed awe at the sight of the monument despite the unusual flooding. Meanwhile, local residents living near the Taj Mahal have expressed concern about the potential for the river to encroach upon their homes, taking precautions to protect their belongings.
