Smog obscures views of the Taj Mahal in Agra

Ambient smog is dulling the panoramic views of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, despite the city recording a moderate Air Quality Index (AQI) of 189. Visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage Site reported a distinct haze that makes the monument’s silhouette appear less clear from distant vantage points, such as the Charbagh gardens and the Yamuna riverfront.

While the monument remains visible up close, calm weather conditions and urban dust are trapping fine particles near the ground. To protect the 17th-century structure, authorities have implemented several measures, including the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), a 10,400 square kilometre protected area established following Supreme Court rulings. This zone requires industries to switch from coal and coke to cleaner fuels like natural gas. Additionally, a zero-emission perimeter is maintained within a 500-metre radius of the site to preserve its marble.