New Delhi: On the evening of April 11, strong winds and heavy rains damaged the stone minarets on the south and royal gates of the Taj Mahal. High speed winds registered at speeds of over 130 kmph also brought down the 12-foot metal pillar, known as the Darwaza-i-Rauza, situated at the entry gate. No casualties were reported after the incident.
The Darwaza-i-Rauza is one of the components of the complex that includes the mausoleum, mosques and the guest pavilion. Also known as the “Great Gate”, it is the point from which the Taj Mahal can be seen for the first time and is also the gateway to the gardens that symbolise paradise.
The heavy rains lashed other cities of Uttar Pradesh for close to 30 minutes during which three people are reported to have lost their lives in the Mathura district when the tin roof of their home collapsed.
A large portion of the crop harvest was damaged by the rains rendering them wasted. The rains have also resulted in many power outages.
