The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has installed tell-tale glass in the widened cracks of Diwan-i-Aam at Agra Fort for a study. The cracks were caused by the projection mapping and cultural presentation done by the Ministry of Women and Child Development for the G-20 delegation. The tell-tale glass will allow ASI to study the widening of the cracks over the next three months until May.Use of Tell-tale Glass in Other MonumentsThis is not the first time ASI has used tell-tale glass for a study. It has been used in monuments such as the Taj Mahal, Jama Masjid, and Jahangiri Mahal in Agra Fort. In Jahangiri Mahal, tell-tale glass was installed on the upper floor, basement, and upper floor of the Taj Mahal. It was also installed outside on the southeastern bastion of Jama Masjid to study the effect of vibrations caused by trains passing through Agra Fort station.Working of Tell-tale GlassTell-tale glass is a thin strip similar to one used to take a blood sample. It is applied to the cracks in the monument with spices. When the width of the crack increases, the tell-tale glass breaks due to pressure. This helps in determining the extent of crack widening.ASIs Plan for the StudyAccording to Dr. Rajkumar Patel, the superintending archaeologist, the study will be conducted for three months using the tell-tale glass. After the study, ASI will re-examine the cracks in Diwan-i-Aam to decide on further action. Until then, barricading will continue in the area.Outrage Over Monument DamageThe cracks in Diwan-i-Aam have caused outrage among the public and political leaders. The incident has raised concerns about the preservation of historical monuments in India. Many have demanded strict action against those responsible for the damage.Need for Better Preservation MeasuresThe incident highlights the need for better preservation measures and monitoring of historical monuments in India. It also raises questions about the responsibility of event organisers at these monuments.The use of tell-tale glass by ASI in Diwan-i-Aam at Agra Fort is a step towards better preservation of historical monuments. It will allow ASI to study the extent of damage and take necessary actions to prevent further damage. The incident also highlights the need for stricter measures to ensure the preservation of historical monuments in India.
