Water leakage has been reported at the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, following three consecutive days of persistent rainfall.

Videos of the waterlogged garden within the grounds of the iconic monument have gone viral on social media, prompting concerns about the site’s condition. Authorities from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have reassured the public that the heritage structure itself has not sustained any damage, although the garden adjacent to the 17th-century mausoleum remains submerged. The ASI conducted an inspection of the monument using drone cameras to assess any potential damage.

“We observed leakage in the main dome of the Taj Mahal. Upon further inspection, we determined that it was caused by seepage, and there was no structural damage to the dome itself. We utilised a drone camera to carry out a thorough check,” said Rajkumar Patel, Superintending Archaeologist of the Agra Circle. The ASI continues to monitor the situation closely to ascertain whether the leakage is ongoing or intermittent.

The Taj Mahal is a 17th-century structure renowned as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Social media users have expressed concern, with many arguing that the risk to even the most iconic structures underscores the urgent need for more intelligent architectural design and urban planning to safeguard heritage sites.

“The sight of the Taj Mahal surrounded by water due to heavy rains is a stark reminder of how crucial it is to plan our cities more effectively. Even our most renowned buildings are vulnerable to changing weather patterns. We must prioritise smarter architectural solutions and city planning to address such challenges, ensuring the protection of both our heritage structures and modern constructions,” wrote Ram Yadav, a local resident, who shared the video of the submerged garden.

Agra is a historic city located 200 kilometres from New Delhi. It is home to several significant Mughal-era landmarks, including the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, and Jhunjhun Ka Katora. Since Thursday, the city has experienced heavy rainfall, resulting in flooding across various parts of Agra, including the premises of the Taj Mahal