April 12, 2018
April 12, 2018
The Taj Mahal attracts millions of tourists every year – Getty Images
A storm has damaged two minarets located at different entry gates of the iconic Taj Mahal in the northern Indian city of Agra.
Officials told the BBC that winds blowing at 130kmh (80mph) caused the 12ft minarets to collapse on Wednesday.
The four longer minarets that surround the main structure are intact.
The 17th Century mausoleum attracts about 12,000 visitors a day and is one of the world's most popular tourist attractions.
One of the destroyed minarets was located at the royal gate from where tourists often get their first glimpse of the monument.
The other was located at the southern gate.
Authorities added that work had begun to restore the damaged structures.
India's official recorded history says that Mughal ruler Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memory of his queen, Mumtaj Mahal.
The monument's complex structure of white marble domes and minarets inlaid with semi-precious stones and carvings is considered the finest example of Mughal art in India
But it has suffered damage due to pollution and construction activity in recent years.
The Archaeological Survey of India, the custodian of the country's monuments, said in January that the Taj Mahal was at risk of losing its sheen and structure due to increased pollution levels in Agra.
Courtesy/Source: BBC News
