Times of India: Agra: Sunday, 28 April 2024.
Insects have been causing damage to the Taj Mahal due to
their infestation, the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has revealed in
response to an RTI query filed by advocate KC Jain.
These insects, a bio-indicator of the Yamuna pollution, have been leaving dark patches on the iconic monument’s marble surfaces since 2015. The ASI said that desilting the Yamuna would aid in protecting the Taj Mahal from these insects. These insects thrive in stagnant, polluted waters near the Taj Mahal. They feed on algae present in the water, multiplying rapidly and leaving green/black stains on the marble surface through their excretion. ASI’s science branch in Agra said these stains have been an annual occurrence since 2015, with the northern side being particularly affected in 2023. The stains were scientifically cleaned in Oct and Nov that year. A May 27, 2016 report highlighted low water levels, excessive sand, and filth, as well as the absence of water flow, as crucial factors behind insect infestation. To tackle the issue, the committee recommended regular desilting and removal of sand to prevent marsh formation on the riverbanks.
These insects, a bio-indicator of the Yamuna pollution, have been leaving dark patches on the iconic monument’s marble surfaces since 2015. The ASI said that desilting the Yamuna would aid in protecting the Taj Mahal from these insects. These insects thrive in stagnant, polluted waters near the Taj Mahal. They feed on algae present in the water, multiplying rapidly and leaving green/black stains on the marble surface through their excretion. ASI’s science branch in Agra said these stains have been an annual occurrence since 2015, with the northern side being particularly affected in 2023. The stains were scientifically cleaned in Oct and Nov that year. A May 27, 2016 report highlighted low water levels, excessive sand, and filth, as well as the absence of water flow, as crucial factors behind insect infestation. To tackle the issue, the committee recommended regular desilting and removal of sand to prevent marsh formation on the riverbanks.
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