The team, led by scientist K V George, is installing instruments to monitor the effects of dust particles on the Taj surface, since it is believed that the particles blown towards the Taj structure cause a sandpaper like effect on the surface of the monument, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials said today .
Two particulate matter monitors had been installed earlier, a third one is being installed now, they said.
According to the ASI, which commissioned NEERI to undertake another extensive survey of the Taj and its environment, the team will also study the long time effect of the pressure of thousands of visitors walking on the platform of the Taj and also inside the Cenotaph Chamber that contains the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.
Along with the atmospheric pollution and other dangers to the Taj, the team will also study the effects of developmental activity around the Taj, particularly the Rs 140 crore Tajganj Project of the Agra Development Authority that has been approved by the state government.
