Pillar of Taj Mahal's entry gate collapses amid heavy rains
What's the story
A pillar at the entry gate to the Taj Mahal in Agra collapsed just past midnight yesterday amid heavy thunderstorms.
When the 12-feet metal structure at the southern gate, called the Darwaza-e-Rauza, fell, wind was blowing at beyond 100kmph, reports said.
The minaret and dome broke into several pieces.
At least eight people were killed in several parts of UP in rain-related incidents yesterday.
Damage
Trees, stalls near the world-famous monument also sustain damage
SSP Amit Pathak said five people died in Achhenera in rain-related incidents, one in Fatehpur Sikri, and two in Kowakheda.
In Mathura, three children died after their home's tin roof collapsed in the thunderstorm.
Crops were also damaged in Nandgaon, Kosi Kalan, Vrindavan and elsewhere.
Operations are on at the Taj to ascertain the damage. Some trees and stalls nearby had been destroyed.
Ownership
Who owns the Taj Mahal?
The Taj is in the middle of an ownership war. The Wakf Board has claimed Shah Jahan himself handed over the 17th-century monument to them.
But the SC isn't convinced: show us the papers with his signature, the court has ordered.
The ASI, which is in charge of administration, has also opposed the Board's claim.
The Board has a week to produce relevant documents.