For all these years, we all believed that Taj Mahal the monument of love and serenity gained an extra glare of beauty when Yamuna River used to reflect its magnetic image on its surfacing waters. But now that it has changed its color and charisma, Yamuna River is now a breeding ground for insects.
These insects called by the name Goeldichironomus are known pests which are now popular for attacking Taj Mahal and its iconic white structure. It was found out when several green marks and spots were seen on Taj’s white marble which are just exact evidences of attacks by the insects mentioned above.
Although, Doctor Girish Maheshvri, the Head of Entomology Department at St John’s College, said that “In spite of attacking the monument, the insects are not likely to inflict harm on the marble of the Taj.” This may be true but all the admirers of this unique wonder of the world would love if some proper measures will be taken to prevent these insects from marking our perfect Taj green or anything other than white.
Dr Maheshvri also added in his statement that, “Acting on a request by the Archaeological Society of India (ASI), we have identified the insect as Goeldichironomus. These grow in numbers when pollution levels of water bodies rise. They form a swamp and are attracted towards sand (stone). The swarming is a result of nuptial flight among the insects. They are attracted towards the Taj. The greenery on the monument’s white marble is partially digested chlorophyll combined with their faecal matter.”
There have been two pest attacks till now and Archaologist BhuvanVikram Singh has reported about the efforts being taken to clean up the monument as soon as possible. After all Taj Mahal is the most precious treasure of our country.
