In a move that signals its deadly earnestness in the current crisis with Pakistan, India has undertaken the protection of the historic Taj Mahal by air and land security, and by preparing to camouflage the entire historic structure.
The beautiful Taj Mahal, widely acclaimed as one of the world’s most romantic monuments, was built by the Mogul emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved queen, who died giving birth to their 14th child. It is one of the most well-known and beloved monuments in the world. Now, Indian authorities are taking drastic measures in order to protect the monument, which they believe could be a target for attack by Pakistan if the current crisis deteriorates into war.
The Associated Press reported that local tailors were stitching more than 400 yards of khaki, black and green cloth, to be strung across the legendary 17th century marble mausoleum. Officials said they would try to hide its four minarets and dome, if a full-scale conflict between the two countries were to break out.
Workers also have started construction of five bunkers to house armed guards around the monument, ready to deal with potential guerilla attacks, and as reported on the BBC, India’s Airspace over the monument has also been closed and no aircraft is permitted to fly overhead. The United News of India quoted civil aviation minister Sayed Shahnawaz Hussain as saying: "Henceforth, no aircraft will fly above buildings of significance and national importance."
The Taj Mahal is not new to the conflict. The gates to the monument have been closed at 7 p.m. since 1984, when Sikh militants threatened to blow it up, denying tourists of the amazing beauty of the complex in the moonlight. The latest security measures around the monument speak for themselves on the seriousness with which India views the possibility of all-out war with neighboring Pakistan. (www.albawaba.com)
