Agra: A minaret at the entrance of the Taj Mahal collapsed as heavy rain and high winds lashed Agra Wednesday night. The 12-feet metal pillar at the entry gate known as Darwaza-e-Rauza, crashed as wind speed during the thunderstorm crossed 100km per hour. The minaret and dome broke into several pieces when the pillar fell down, news channel reported.
Taj has been losing its sheen and the structure is suffering due to increased pollution levels in Agra,” the ASI said after conducting a study. “Experts said the abrasive nature of the particulate matter in the air is damaging the surfaces of the Taj.”