‘Tear drop on the cheek of time’ that’s how Rabindranath Tagore describes it. Taj Mahal is one of the best examples of Mughal architecture and India’s rich history. But the changing colour of Taj Mahal is worrying the Government. The Crown of the Palace or the Taj Mahal, is ‘slowly turning brownish-yellow because of air pollution, and the effect of certain insects,’ says a study. It also identifies the pollutants responsible for changing color of Taj Mahal.
It says that Taj Mahal’s changing color is a result of deposition of dust and carbon-containing particles. Carbon particles emitted by burning of fossil fuels, biomass and garbage are major contributors. The study confirms that Agra’s poor air quality is also impacting India’s most celebrated monument.
The concept of Mud Therapy for Treating the changing colour of Taj Mahal
Yes, you read that right. A mud therapy is being used to reverse the ill effects of pollution on Taj Mahal.
The government recently announced the maintenance of this beautiful, world famous monument. This announcement came after various Rajya Sabha members voiced their concern over Taj Mahal’s deteriorating condition.
Culture Minister, Mahesh Sharma said that all the efforts are being made to reduce the impact of insects and pollution on the structure.
The mud therapy involves the application of multani mitti (fuller’s earth), which is a rich source of magnesium chloride (MgCl). It is hugely popular for its healing properties against acne and blemishes. The therapy is based on adsorption principle which is similar to the one used on face to get rid of oil and dirt.
Discussing the progress of the work Sharma added that, it has been applied on three-fourths of the structure and is showing positive results. This work is being done under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
According to the ASI this mud therapy will require minimum one year to complete. It is only after that, the results will be clearly visible.
But this comes as a huge disappointment for the tourists, who now will not be able to take pictures of the beautiful tomb for quite some time.
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