Yamuna's Historic Surge: Water Laps Against Taj Mahal Walls as Agra Braces for Flood Threat

Agra is holding its breath as the mighty Yamuna River, swollen by relentless rains in its upper catchment areas, has reached an astonishing and alarming level, lapping against the outer walls of the iconic Taj Mahal. This unprecedented surge has plunged the city into a state of high alert, stirring memories of devastating floods from decades past and prompting urgent preparations across the region.

The river's waters, usually a distant gleam from the Taj's revered plinth, now touch the very foundation of its back wall.

Authorities report that the Yamuna's level surged to 499.9 feet on Thursday morning, precariously close to the 'high flood' mark of 500 feet and significantly above the 'danger' mark of 499 feet. This dramatic rise eclipses the 495-foot 'low flood' level and is nearing the infamous 508-foot mark recorded during the calamitous 1978 flood, which submerged large parts of the city.

While the main monument of the Taj Mahal, strategically built on a raised platform, remains safe and untouched by the current waters, the peripheral areas and gardens tell a different story.

The historical Mehtab Bagh, a picturesque garden complex directly across the Yamuna from the Taj, has been completely submerged, leading to immediate restrictions on tourist entry.

Similarly, the ancient graves of the monument's companions, located within the Taj complex along the riverbank, are now underwater. This inundation extends to the foundational structures and pathways closer to the river, transforming the usual serene landscape into a watery expanse.

Beyond the architectural marvel, the rising Yamuna poses a significant threat to several low-lying residential areas of Agra.

Localities such as Yamuna Kinara, Tajganj, Balkeshwar, and the revered Kailash Temple are bracing for potential inundation. District Magistrate Agra has affirmed that the administration is actively monitoring the situation, prepared to initiate relief and evacuation operations as necessary to safeguard residents and their properties.

The primary cause of this formidable swell can be traced to heavy and continuous rainfall in the Yamuna's upper catchment areas, particularly across Delhi, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.

Compounding this natural phenomenon is the subsequent large-scale discharge of water from the Hathnikund Barrage, located upstream. This combination has sent a torrent of water downstream, pushing the river to its critical limits as it flows through Agra.

As the city collectively holds its breath, the focus remains firmly on the river's trajectory and the safety of its inhabitants and heritage.

With continuous monitoring and preparedness measures in place, Agra hopes to navigate this challenging period, ensuring the safety of its people while protecting its invaluable historical treasures from the powerful embrace of the rising Yamuna.