Today,22nd April,The Supreme Court sought the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) input regarding a conservation strategy for the Taj Mahal. This move hughlights ongoing efforts to safeguard the iconic monument’s heritage and structural integrity. The ASI’s expertise in historical preservation and restoration is crucial for developing effective long-term conservation measures.
New Delhi: On Monday, the Supreme Court requested a response from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) regarding the strategic vision document devised for the conservation of the Taj Mahal and its surrounding area.
Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan of the bench instructed the Uttar Pradesh government to present the vision document, which developed in collaboration with the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) and the state itself. During a hearing on a petition for the implementation of a vision plan aimed at preserving the Taj Mahal and safeguarding the Taj Trapezium Zone, the bench recalled its December 8, 2017, order that called for the creation of a forward-looking conservation strategy.
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The Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) identified as a trapezoid area encompassing approximately 10,400 square kilometers, spanning the districts of Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Hathras, and Etah in Uttar Pradesh, as well as the Bharatpur district in Rajasthan.
The top court found it “surprising” that on July 26, 2018, it observed the plan was prepared without consulting the ASI, which is responsible for the upkeep of the Taj Mahal.
The bench stated,
“We would like to hear ASI’s response regarding the vision document,” as it scheduled further hearings for July 11.”
The top court overseeing developments in the area to safeguard the monument constructed by Mughal emperor. Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal in 1631.
This mausoleum holds UNESCO World Heritage status.
During a hearing on a plea to grant Agra the World Heritage City tag, the bench instructed the Centre to submit its response within six weeks.
Addressing a petition concerning the cleaning of the Yamuna river near the Taj Mahal, the bench emphasized the necessity of clearing silt, garbage, and sludge from the riverbed without contention.
The bench emphasized,
“Immediate action is necessary if no steps have been taken so far,”
The Bench also suggested that the Centre can seek assistance from expert agencies if needed.
It stressed the continuous process of removing silt, garbage, and sludge from the Yamuna riverbed, with affidavits required from the Centre, Uttar Pradesh government, and Agra Development Authority (ADA) detailing their actions.
The bench directed the clear delineation of responsibilities for clearing the riverbed debris, with affidavits due from the Centre, Uttar Pradesh, and ADA by July 11.