The Taj Mahal is turning green

The majestic white marble Taj Mahal is turning green. In recent weeks insect poo are leaving green patches all over the mausoleum, environmentalist say.

A bug called Chironomus Calligraphus which inhabits in the Yamuna River nearby is believed to be the cause of the green patches.

Environmental activist DK Joshi has filed a petition in the National Green Tribunal which deals with environmental disputes in India, BBC reported.

Joshi said that the "explosive breeding" of the pests in the polluted Yamuna river is marring the beauty of the monument.

"Fifty-two drains are pouring waste directly into the river and just behind the monument, Yamuna has become so stagnant that fish that earlier kept insect populations in check are dying. This allows pests to proliferate in the river," Joshi told the BBC.

The green stains are washable and workers are currently scrubbing the walls, but Joshi maintains that this will take off the natural shine of the marble.

He insists that the only solution is to clean up the Yamuna river.

Insect poo is leaving green patches on the Taj Mahal- Vivek Jain

Insect poo is leaving green patches on the Taj Mahal- Archaeological Survey of India