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As the Yamuna River swells beyond its usual course, the world-renowned Taj Mahal faced a potential threat when the water level reached its walls on Monday, July 17. However, officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) assured the public that the design of the historic monument would prevent any water from seeping into its main structure.
Prince Vajpayee, a conservation assistant at ASI stationed at the Taj Mahal, explained that the architectural ingenuity of the monument ensures that water cannot enter the main mausoleum, even during periods of high floods. He noted that the last time the Yamuna came in close contact with the Taj Mahal's rear wall was during the high floods of 1978.
In response to the previous flood incident in 1978, the water level of the Yamuna rose significantly to 508 feet, marking a historical high flood level for the river in Agra. During that event, water managed to infiltrate the basement of the monument, causing damage and leaving silt behind. To prevent such incidents in the future, ASI replaced the wooden doors that facilitated the water ingress with sturdy walls at the entrances from Basai and Dusherra ghats.
Fortunately, the current flood situation did not result in any water intrusion into the Taj Mahal's interior, as it remained protected by its unique architectural features. The surrounding garden, developed a few decades ago when the Yamuna water level receded, acted as a buffer zone between the river and the monument.
Meanwhile, in response to the ongoing floods, multiple teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police, and local administration, worked diligently to evacuate people stranded in low-lying areas of Agra and Mathura. Over 500 individuals from 50 villages and 20 urban areas near the Yamuna were successfully relocated to safer regions.
The situation is being closely monitored, and authorities are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of both the iconic Taj Mahal and the communities affected by the floods. As the river's water level remains a concern, efforts to protect the heritage site and its surroundings are of paramount importance to preserve this architectural marvel for future generations.
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