Whether Taj Mahal, the most beautiful building and one of the seven wonders of the world, is in danger? It seems so.
This wonder, built by Mughal Emperor Shajahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal in the 17th century is still the most sought after tourist spot in India. It was built during 1631 to 1653, 22 years of continued labour of more than 20,000 skilled and unskilled workers. The main architect was Isa Khan from Iran.After Shajahan died he was buried there.
I visited Taj Mahal for the first time in 1964. It was an experience with the white marble shining in the banks of the water filled Yamuna river. It was morning and was very pleasant also.
A few months back, I had gone again there. It was noon and I felt very hot. But there were other differences. It seemed to me that the white marble has lost its colour. There was very less water in the river. And the water seemed to be polluted. Any way a lot of difference in the atmosphere itself. But the beauty is the same.
Environmentalists, nature lovers and archeologists were pointing out that the chemical remission from the factories nearby and Mathura Oil Refinery are polluting the building and hence the colour change. They warn that this will cause danger to the building. Now a report says that the base of the building is in danger due to the low level of the water in the Yamuna as well as polluted water. It is stated that the base is constructrd by ebony planks and it requires water to ensure they continue to be strong and firm. But now the water is below this ebony planks which results in drying or shrinking of these wooden planks. And it may endanger the structure.
Indian government is not that much interested in maintaining the historical monuments. We need not cite many examples. But the Government can not be a silent spectator to the real danger to the Taj Mahal. It can not leave this matter to Archeological department alone. It has to examine the issue scientifically and expertly and take immediate necessary action to ensure the saftey of Taj Mahal.