Agra’s Taj Mahal reopened today under mandatory guidelines to be adhered to, following the rampant and ongoing spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The Taj Mahal was shut for the public and tourists for more than six months since March 17 following imposed lockdowns. Today, the Agra Fort also reopened. The safety guidelines must be exercised with caution during the visit to the mausoleum and fort. Social distancing and hand sanitization are topmost priorities. This information was provided by Vasant Kumar Swarnkar, superintending archaeologist of the Archaeological Survey of India (Agra circle). 

The daily tourist limit at the Taj Mahal will be up to 5,000, with 2,500 before 2 PM and the rest after. At Agra Fort, 2,500 tourists will be allowed on a daily basis. “Masks are mandatory to enter the monuments, and all tickets must be purchased online. Ticket counters will not be open,” Swarnkar said.

With an annual visit of seven million people, the Taj Mahal remains a wonder of attraction. The Agra Fort has nearly three million visitors in a year. The many monuments contribute massively to the revenue of Uttar Pradesh.

“It’s incredible and historical at the same time. This is the first time that Taj was shut for six months. We are here to witness the change. The new normal has to be expected and adopted for our good. I have come with my family, stood in the queue, got digital tickets, and all set to see Taj,” Nishant Vasisht, a visitor, told media.

Despite the coronavirus cases nationwide being on a large rise, the government announced Unlock 4, permitting the reopening of the heritage sites upon these lifted bans and relaxations. At present, Uttar Pradesh is the fifth most-affected state in the country with over 3.48 lakh COVID-19 cases.