Agra's Air Quality Worsens: Taj Mahal Engulfed in Thick Haze, Visitors Complain of Low Visibility

Agra: The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, was shrouded in a thick haze on Sunday as pollution levels continued to increase in the city. 

Manoharpur area in Agra recorded its Air Quality Index (AQI) at 190, categorized as 'moderate'.

Whereas Shahjahan garden area recorded an AQI of 113 as of 9 AM. The average AQI recorded of Agra for October 26 was 106, categorized as 'moderate' too.An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor, and 401-500 is severe.

Taj Mahal Engulfed With Thick Layer of Smog | WATCH 

According to a visitor at the Taj Mahal, the situation in the area has worsened over the years due to the industrial areas traffic increasing.

"I am here on a trip, I wanted to see the sunrise. 14 years ago, I was here and the sky was clear back then. Industrial areas are increasing towards Agra side and vehicle load is also increasing here, I think these are the reasons behind the rise in pollution," visitor was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

Another visitor to the iconic site said that due to all the smog it has become difficult to see the monument properly.

The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands along the banks of the Yamuna River. As a popular tourist destination, it often hosts state guests and dignitaries who come to admire the beauty of this white marble mausoleum.

Recently, on October 8, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed visited the Taj Mahal during the president's inaugural bilateral trip to India from October 6 to 10.

On a related note, the Health Ministry has called on states and union territories to address stubble burning in light of rising pollution levels across the country. They also urged the public to utilize public transportation and minimize exposure to pollution.