The Supreme Court had directed the Central government-run ASI to submit a Site Management Plan (SMP) or draft for conservation of Taj Mahal to protect its heritage character and uniqueness. White marble used in the monument has turned yellow due to air pollution. Water stagnation in the Yamuna river and high phosphorus levels on the riverbed made it a breeding ground for insects that form brown and green patches on the walls of the Taj. Sweat, oil and dirt from visitors being getting absorbed into the marble of the Taj.
For avoiding discolouration: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has devised a special campaign, aimed at cleaning the Taj Mahal from all sides. Replying to an RTI query, the ASI disclosed that it would involve wet and mechanical surface cleaning of roads within a five-km radius of the monument. Making shoe cover mandatory for entering the mausoleum premises has also been suggested. All buildings and gardens within the complex need to be regularly maintained to ensure its good state of preservation.
For tackling pollution: To tackle air pollution in the city, it is suggested that all non-CNG vehicles used for commercial purposes should be driven out of the city limits. A complete ban on burning of biomass/municipal waste. Transport vehicles are the main cause for air pollution in the city, including cars, two wheelers, three wheelers and commercial HVAC systems.
For managing footfall: The increased footfall is being anticipated by the preparation of alternate queuing systems like mobile counters, fast track counters etc., and the deployment of extra security personnel at various locations.
Taj Mahal is a mausoleum located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. It was built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
The Taj Mahal is regarded as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage".
It stands on the banks of the river Yamuna which flows past Agra. Taj Mahal is considered to be one of the most photographed buildings in the world and in 1983 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The construction of the Taj Mahal was completed within a period of 17 years from 1631 to 1648 AD.
The Taj Mahal was declared a centrally protected monument of national importance in December 1920.
