Insects Taj Mahal

Parts of Taj Mahal are turning greenish-black due to release of faeces and dirt by an insect, the government today said while stressing that it is a "temporary phenomena" as colour of marble could be regained after simple treatment.

Archaeological experts say insects from the polluted Yamuna river near the Taj Mahal are marring the 17th century monument of love's intricate marble inlay work by leaving green and black patches of waste on its walls.

The rampant dumping of municipal solid waste in Yamuna near Taj Mahal leading to stagnation of water in the river and consequent formation of greenish-black pigments on the iconic white marble due to breeding of an insect has caught the attention of the National Green Tribunal which on Monday sought reply from the Centre on the issue.

Calling Taj Mahal as "not a monument to experiment with", top heritage experts have raised objections to the illumination of the famed Mughal-era mausoleum, saying the step jeopardizes its marble surface due to defecation on it by insects attracted by the lighting.

Parts of Taj Mahal are turning greenish-black due to release of faeces and dirt by an insect, the government today said while stressing that it is a "temporary phenomena" as colour of marble could be regained after simple treatment.

Archaeological experts say insects from the polluted Yamuna river near the Taj Mahal are marring the 17th century monument of love's intricate marble inlay work by leaving green and black patches of waste on its walls.

The rampant dumping of municipal solid waste in Yamuna near Taj Mahal leading to stagnation of water in the river and consequent formation of greenish-black pigments on the iconic white marble due to breeding of an insect has caught the attention of the National Green Tribunal which on Monday sought reply from the Centre on the issue.

Calling Taj Mahal as "not a monument to experiment with", top heritage experts have raised objections to the illumination of the famed Mughal-era mausoleum, saying the step jeopardizes its marble surface due to defecation on it by insects attracted by the lighting.