logo
Is Taj Mahal Leaking? ASI Reveals Water Seepage In Main Dome Of UNESCO World Heritage Site

Is Taj Mahal Leaking? ASI Reveals Water Seepage In Main Dome Of UNESCO World Heritage Site

News183 days ago

Last Updated:
The Taj Mahal faces water seepage in its dome, detected by the ASI at 73 meters. Repairs will take six months due to deteriorated mortar, weakened structures, and rusted iron rods.
The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the world, is now facing a worrying problem. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has detected a water seepage point in the dome of the Taj Mahal at a height of 73 metres during thermal scanning.
According to the sources, the dome is currently encased in scaffolding for ASI to continue the inspection, which is likely to go on for 15 days. After this, experts will start the repair work on the dome, which will take about six months to complete.
The sources claimed that the ASI's Light Detection and Ranging investigation of the monument of love revealed three key issues. The mortar between the stones on the main dome of the monument was found to have deteriorated. Additionally, the door and floor of the dome's roof have weakened. Furthermore, the final part mounted on the dome is supported by an iron rod that has eroded due to rusting, leading to the expansion of the surrounding mortar.
Taj Mahal's Senior Conservation Assistant, Prince Vajpayee, said that the light detection inspections have nearly been completed. 'Now, physical inspection will be done. In view of the height of the main dome and pinnacle mounted on it at 73 metres, it will take around six months to complete the repair work."

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Year after rain damage, repairs begin at Taj dome as tech survey traces leak points
Year after rain damage, repairs begin at Taj dome as tech survey traces leak points

Time of India

time9 hours ago

  • Time of India

Year after rain damage, repairs begin at Taj dome as tech survey traces leak points

Agra: Nearly a year after rainwater seeped through the Taj Mahal's main dome, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has begun the only the third major repair of the iconic structure's dome since 1652. The restoration work follows an extensive technical survey using drone imaging, thermal scanning and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) to trace the exact source of the leakage. The repairs are expected to take six months, with no impact on tourist access. The repair focuses on the stones beneath the dome's finial, where water leaked through after heavy rains in Sept 2024. ASI launched a probe shortly after the incident, and officials said at least three points were identified where seepage occurred. A drone survey helped identify the exact points from where water had trickled down. Scaffolding was erected earlier this month to access the upper dome. Prince Vajpayee, senior conservation assistant, ASI, told TOI that following technical inspection, a physical examination of the site would begin. "In view of the height of the main dome and the pinnacle mounted on it at 73 m, it will take around six months to complete the repair work by a specially trained team of labourers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Order New Blinds Online & Get $199 Home Installation Learn More Undo Reaching the 32-ft-tall finial atop the dome is a challenging task. Earlier, filling gaps between marble stones on the dome was done using suspended cradles. However, the current conservation work requires scaffolding," he said, adding that the structural base of the Taj is strong and intact. Sources in ASI's Agra circle told TOI that a "committee comprising conservators, technicians and experts will assess the strength of the scaffolding to identify whether it is capable of carrying the load of the labourers to launch the repair work. The report is expected within the week." The Taj Mahal's first documented leakage dates back to Dec 4, 1652, when Mughal prince Aurangzeb inspected the monument during the rainy season and reported the issue to his father, emperor Shah Jahan. In his letter, Aurangzeb wrote: "The dome of the holy tomb leaked in two places towards the north during the rainy season and also through the fair semi-domed arches, many of the galleries on the second storey, the four smaller domes, the four northern compartments and the seven arched underground chambers which have developed cracks. .. During the rains last year the terrace over the main dome also leaked in two or three places." Repairs were carried out following this inspection. In 1872, British engineer JW Alexander oversaw repairs to address similar issues. Later, in 1941, a three-year conservation project costing ₹92,000 was carried out under British supervision, based on recommendations by an expert committee. The dome was waterproofed using hydraulic lime, and several stones were replaced and reset. Built between 1631 and 1648 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal remains one of the world's most visited monuments. As per data shared in Rajya Sabha during this year's Budget session, it earned over ₹297 crore through ticket sales between FY 2019-20 and 2023-24 — the highest among all ASI-protected monuments.

10 Jaw-Dropping Facts That Prove Chandigarh Is India's Coolest Planned City
10 Jaw-Dropping Facts That Prove Chandigarh Is India's Coolest Planned City

India.com

time2 days ago

  • India.com

10 Jaw-Dropping Facts That Prove Chandigarh Is India's Coolest Planned City

The capital city of Punjab and Haryana known as Chandigarh unites contemporary design structures with orderly urban development alongside picturesque surroundings. Chandigarh stands out as the 'City Beautiful' because of its neat structure and energetic local atmosphere. Chandigarh contains 10 significant facts which will astonish all visitors. 1. Chandigarh Was Designed by a French Architect Chandigarh stands out because of how it came into existence. When India gained its independence in 1947 the Punjab territory experienced partition creating a new border which separated India and Pakistan and placed Lahore as their capital in Pakistan. When the Indian government initiated the construction of a new national capital it took the decision. Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier became the designer of the city when the government contracted him for his expertise in 1950. Through his architectural and urban planning ideas Chandigarh became a modern symbol that defines both aesthetics and organization. The designs created by Le Corbusier focused on both functionality alongside spacious areas and greenery. The design of Chandigarh features a rectangular system with distinct sections to demonstrate his methods of creating an effective urban community. Major business services operate independently from one another in separate sections that retain educational centers, medical services and shopping opportunities. 2. It Is India's First Planned City India established Chandigarh as its very first organized urban development. From traditional Indian times until its foundation the majority of Indian cities developed spontaneously through centuries of spontaneous growth instead of planned development. Le Corbusier worked with architects Pierre Jeanneret and E. Maxwell Fry and Jane Drew during the complete design of Chandigarh from the beginning. The master plan of Chandigarh has distinct zones that separate residential from industrial from commercial from educational and recreational parts of the city. The considered design structure of the city makes Chandigarh rank as one of the cleanest and most habitable cities in India. 3. The Capitol Complex Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site Chandigarh features one of its most famous architectural achievements through its Capitol Complex situated in Sector 1. Le Corbusier designed the complex which includes three remarkable buildings: the Secretariat alongside the Legislative Assembly as well as the High Court. The structures at these buildings express Le Corbusier's particular design sense through their combination of large geometric structures and exposed concrete materials and creative lighting patterns. The Capitol Complex received UNESCO World Heritage Site status during 2016 because its modernist architecture qualifies it as an outstanding example for the site designation. The landmarks await visitors who want to view their historical significance together with their cultural value. 4. Rock Garden: A Unique Artistic Creation The Rock Garden of Chandigarh exists as a masterpiece that showcases how people can creatively combine creativity with environmental awareness. Artist Nek Chand constructed this magical 40-acre territory by transforming discarded broken tiles and bangles along with crockery and industrial waste into sculptures for his masterpiece. A clandestine secret development initiated during 1957 transitioned into one of India's most popular travel destinations. Thousands of tourists see the Rock Garden each year because they come to view its interconnected stone pathways and whimsical art statues and waterfalls. The concept demonstrates that art and sustainable practices can exist together peaceably. 5. Chandigarh Has a High Quality of Life Chandigarh stands as one of India's leading cities in terms of safety and cleanliness resulting in a superior life quality. Public spaces together with extensive roads and abundant green areas make Chandigarh recognized as a prime exemplary city. The Swachh Survekshan rankings frequently show Chandigarh taking positions at the top for maintaining cleanliness throughout the city. High-quality healthcare facilities together with educational institutions and recreational opportunities make up the advantages of the city. Residents and tourists can enjoy the peaceful landscapes of Sukhna Lake Rose Garden as well as Zakir Hussain Rose Garden for recreation. 6. The City Is Divided Into Sectors The city of Chandigarh follows a grid pattern distribution system that divides its territory into sectors which range from sector 1 to sector 56 while skipping specific numbers. Each 800 by 1,200 meter sector section includes all necessary amenities that residents can access through walking distance. The zoning arrangement works to reduce traffic problems while keeping movement routes simple. Each sector contains its market located at the central point which provides easy accessibility for all people. Both main roads named Madhya Marg and Dakshin Marg have been designed to enable comfortable movement of traffic throughout the city. 7. Chandigarh Hosts One of Asia's Largest Rose Gardens The Zakir Hussain Rose Garden occupies 30 acres space where visitors can find more than 50,000 rose bushes which belong to 1,600 distinct types. The aristocratic establishment dates back to 1967 to become one of Asia's largest rose gardens attracting numerous nature enthusiasts. The month of February transforms the garden through the Rose Festival that brings together colorful flowers and performances along with cultural activities. The celebration of spring through this event welcomes people from different regions across the entire nation. 8. Chandigarh Is Known for Its Green Cover The city receives its name from its 'Garden City' designation because of its extensive green nature. The total land mass of the city comprises about 47% forest area and green zone. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary serves as a protected reserve which shelters diverse flora and fauna together with migratory birds while positioned near Sukhna Lake. Natural resource preservation stands as a priority focus area for the municipal leadership in the city. Through its park maintenance and eco-friendly practice promotion along with tree planting initiatives Chandigarh has received recognition as a leading green city in India. 9. Chandigarh Is a Hub for Education and Research Several prestigious educational and research institutions establish their presence in the municipality of Chandigarh. The year 1882 marked the establishment of Panjab University as one of India's oldest educational institutions that continues to secure prestigious positions among national higher education institutions. The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) stands out due to its recognized medical facilities whereas the Chandigarh College of Architecture is a prominent educational institution. The educational institutions in this city draw academic bodies from Indian students as well as international students who help maintain intellectual richness. 10. Chandigarh Reflects Cultural Diversity Chandigarh functions as a modern city that accepts multiple cultural elements and various traditional patterns together with multiple culinary styles. The position of Chandigarh as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana enables it to showcase cultural elements from both states and it welcomes additional cultural influences from the rest of India. The city celebrates its local festivals of Lohri , Baisakhi along with Holi in an energetic and joyous manner. Throughout the year Chandigarh presents multiple cultural events combined with fairs and exhibitions that display its artistic diversity together with its culinary traditions. Final Thoughts A strong example of effective planning coupled with leadership inspiration can be found through the city of Chandigarh. The city began as a well-thought-out urban project and today constitutes a diverse cultural and educational and sustainable center which generates continuous admiration. Chandigarh offers attractions that appeal to those who love architecture as well as nature fans alongside people in search of peaceful living. The harmonious fusion between contemporary elements and cultural heritage has made this city genuinely exclusive. Tourists and residents should willingly protect and explore it.

10th-century Kannada, Tamil inscriptions; hero stones found in Chamarajanagar farm
10th-century Kannada, Tamil inscriptions; hero stones found in Chamarajanagar farm

Hans India

time2 days ago

  • Hans India

10th-century Kannada, Tamil inscriptions; hero stones found in Chamarajanagar farm

Chamarajanagara: A significant archaeological discovery has come to light in Yanagumba village of Chamarajanagar taluk, where 10th-century inscriptions and hero stones (Veeragallu) engraved in both Tamil and Kannada scripts have been found on farmland belonging to a local farmer, Manjunath. Speaking about the find, Manjunath said the inscriptions were discovered buried in his land and its surroundings while farming activities were underway. Notably, the Kannada inscriptions refer to the village as Yeramagumba, while the Tamil inscriptions mention it as Yeramaigumba. Another nearby village, present-day Melur, is referred to as Moluru in the inscriptions, which also reveal that cattle rearing was once prevalent in the region. Dr. Anil Kumar, an epigraphist with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), shared insights on the discovery: 'One inscription records a land grant. Another narrates how a man named Kesanna was killed fighting bravely while trying to stop cattle theft, with a local hero named Kaala of Yeramagumba defending the herd. A Tamil inscription mentions a warrior named Kolan, son of Munivar Kandaachari. Another inscription bears royal symbols such as an umbrella and horse, though the text is partly unclear and will need further study. Tamil epigraphy expert Dr. Balamurugan is also working on these, alongside our team members Nagendra and Gaurav.' The ASI team has begun a detailed examination of the inscriptions and hero stones. The farmer, Manjunath, further revealed that a small Shiva temple, which had long been hidden by fencing and undergrowth, was also uncovered on his land along with the inscriptions. 'These valuable inscriptions and hero stones must be preserved properly. I urge that more research be conducted in our village and surrounding areas to protect this historical heritage,' Manjunath said. Turugolu inscriptions are epigraphs that specifically mention cattle and livestock. They often record incidents of cattle raids, conflicts over cattle, or battles fought to protect them. The newly found hero stones at Yanagumba are classic examples, shedding light on the socio-economic life and valor of local heroes during that period. The discovery is expected to add valuable insights to the history and heritage of Karnataka's border region with Tamil Nadu.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store