Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a beautiful white marble structure, and perfect amalgamation of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architecture

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Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631, it stands as the 7 wonders of the world, on the Yamuna River's right bank in Agra, Uttar Pradesh

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It is facing an unexpected threat as Yamuna pollution triggered a peculiar phenomenon, turning the iconic monument green

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Brown-green stains on the Taj Mahal are attributed to the Goeldichironomus insect,whose excrement causes discoloration

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These insects play a role in water quality assessments as their larvae eat algae in the river and remove chlorophyll as waste material

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Attraction to the white marble signifies high phosphorus levels from pollution and sediments leading female insects to lay over 1,000 eggs at a time

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This is a matter of concern as the stains, primarily on floral motifs and stonework, persist and reoccur every six months

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In 2015, the stains were removed using mudpack, but in 2023 larvae grew unusually till late October

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ASI is intensively studying the insect's behavior, breeding habits, and exploring methods to maintain cleanliness in Yamuna

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Taj Mahal

The

is turning

Green!

Here are the reasons