Taj Mahal Dome Leaks After Heavy Rainfall In Agra; Viral Video Captures Flooded Garden

Continuous rainfall over two days in Agra has caused extensive damage to the Taj Mahal. Water has begun seeping from the main dome of the monument, and the adjacent gardens remain waterlogged.

Rajkumar Patel, Superintending Archaeologist, told The Times of India (TOI) that an investigation is underway to determine the source of the seepage. "We've observed moisture inside the main mausoleum, possibly due to a hairline crack in the stones of the dome," Patel explained, adding that they are closely monitoring whether the leakage is continuous or intermittent.

The heavy rain has affected the Taj Mahal and other historical sites in Agra. Minor damages have been reported at Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Jhunjhun Ka Katora, Rambagh, Mehtab Bagh, Chini Ka Rauza, Akbar's tomb in Sikandra, and the Roman Catholic Cemetery.

The Meteorological Department said that Agra received 151 mm of rain on Thursday. This marks the highest amount of rainfall in 24 hours over the past 80 years. A video showing the inundated garden has circulated on social media, sparking curiosity among locals and tourists visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"Necessary repairs will be conducted, and the garden will be restored after the rain subsides," Patel stated. The ASI is taking steps to ensure that any damage is promptly addressed once weather conditions improve.

The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was constructed between 1632 and 1653 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in Agra as a mausoleum for his cherished wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth.

On Thursday evening, a 20-second video went viral depicting one of the monument's gardens completely submerged in rainwater. The footage drew significant attention from tourists, many of whom captured the scene on their phones.