New Delhi: The monument of love Taj Mahal would soon unfold its dazzling beauty with a new look as the cleaning work of the white marble would be completed shortly.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which is protecting the monument, would complete the cleaning of the outer walls and dome of the heritage, one of the seven wonders of the world, within a few months.

"Cleaning the Taj Mahal is an ongoing work. But it has stopped at present due to monsoon. Once the monsoon is over, we will begin the work after which it would be completed within a few months," ASI Director General Anshu Vaish told PTI here.

The 17th century monument, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, had become yellowish due to air pollution and natural ageing.

"After the entire cleaning work is done at the Taj Mahal, the monument will sport a new look," she said.

The outer wall and the dome had accumulated dust due to pollution emanating from traffic, industry and burning of fossil fuels.

The ASI has taken up mudpack treatment which is the best way to preserve the architectural masterpiece, Vaish said.

The mudpack treatment involves pouring lime-splashed clay onto the building s fine Arabic etching to draw out the dust and other elements.
Source : PTI