Agra Police beefs up security in and around famed Taj Mahal

Security has been tightened in and around the famed Taj Mahal here in the wake of the July 7 serial blasts in the Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodh Gaya, Bihar.

Security personnel have been ordered to frisk all visitors at the historic site.

Ten bombs exploded at the Mahabodhi Temple complex, injuring two persons. The government has described it as a 'terror' attack.

The 358-year-old Taj Mahal is India's most famed tourist attraction, bringing in four million visitors annually.

The Taj Mahal is considered to be the epitome of Mughal architecture, combining Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles.

Zarine, an American tourist, said she had no objection to the security drill being carried out at the entrance of the Taj Mahal, saying it is a good step.

Other visitors, including Indians endorsed her views.

Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Om Parkash Singh said: "In wake of the serial blasts, we have beefed up security at the Taj Mahal. Senior officers are reviewing security at the Taj Mahal, and have identified loopholes. Several security agencies are working closely to secure the Taj Mahal."

The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died after delivering the couple's 14th child.

UNESCO declared the Taj Mahal a world heritage site in 1983.