Case Note & Summary
The case involved a petition concerning the management of visitors at the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which attracts approximately 1.4 million visitors annually. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) approached the Supreme Court with proposals to upgrade visitor facilities and regulate entry to enhance the experience while preserving the monument's grandeur. The proposals included constructing two Visitors' Centres at the Western and Eastern Gates, which would provide amenities such as ticket purchasing, security checks, and waiting areas. The ASI's plan also involved the removal of existing structures and trees, with compensatory planting proposed. The court expressed concerns regarding the aesthetic integration of the new structures with the historical context of the site and emphasized the need for the final plans to be presented for approval before construction commenced. The court ultimately approved the concept of the Visitors' Centres, highlighting the importance of balancing visitor convenience with the preservation of the Taj Mahal's historical character.
Headnote
A) Administrative Law - Visitor Management - Proposal for Construction of Visitors' Centres - Not applicable - The court approved the proposal for constructing two Visitors' Centres at the Taj Mahal to improve visitor experience while ensuring the preservation of the monument's character. The construction is contingent upon final plans being presented and approved by the court. Held that the proposals aim to enhance visitor convenience without compromising the monument's integrity (Paras 8-9).
Issue of Consideration
Whether to approve the proposals for upgrading visitor facilities at the Taj Mahal complex.
Final Decision
The court approved the proposal for constructing two Visitors' Centres at the Taj Mahal, contingent upon the final plans being presented and approved by the court.
Law Points
- Visitor management
- monument conservation
- public convenience
- archaeological preservation
