The Taj Mahal on Saturday was opened to visitors for night viewing almost after one and a half years. The monument was closed for night-time viewing since March last year due to the COVID-19 induced lockdown.

Vasant Kumar Swarnkar, Superintending Archaeologist, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Agra, said "It is good news for tourists and visitors that after 1.5 years Taj Mahal has been re-opened to people for night viewing.

We have made all necessary arrangements for people to follow the COVID-19 protocol and guidelines. Only after checking the body temperature and sanitising their hands, we are allowing them entry into the monument. We are also ensuring that people wear masks and maintain social distancing."

"Night viewing for Taj Mahal was closed ever since the first COVID-induced lockdown was announced in March 2020. The timings for night viewing are from 8:30 till 10 pm and only 150 visitors will be allowed in three batches of 50 each. Night viewing is open only three days in a week," he added.

Meanwhile, the Taj Mahal and all other centrally protected monuments, museums, and sites reopened on June 16 for day viewing. Agra district administration has permitted the entry of only 650 visitors inside the premises of the Taj Mahal so that Covid protocols are followed.