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Taj mahal reopens after violence

30/ 8/2007

INDIA'S Taj Mahal reopened to tourists after a curfew was eased following riots that left one dead and dozens injured in the northern city of Agra.

The curfew remained in place in some parts of the city, but police said it had been lifted until dusk in the area around the 17th century monument to love.

Cars were also allowed back on the roads.

The violence erupted in Agra, 200km south of New Delhi, yesterday after four young Muslims were crushed under a truck as they walked home aftre a religious festival.

Angry Muslims, who make up 20 per cent of Agra's 1.6 million population, spilled out onto the streets, pelting police with rocks and bottles.

One person was killed, 50 more injured and a dozen vehicles were set ablaze.

The mob also blocked the highway connceting Agra with New Delhi.

Authorities issued an advisory telling tourists to remain in their hotels until order was restored.

Thousands of visitors usually flock to the riverside park every day, but few braved the tense Agra streets after the monument opened as usual just after dawn.

"The Taj Mahal has been open for the past three hours, but only three buses and four private tourist cars have arrived at the car park," said gate official Raj Kumar.

The Uttar Pradesh state Government appointed a new police chief for Agra after transferring his predecessor and suspending 13 officers, holding them responsible for the violence, said regional police inspector general Kamal Saxena.

They were accused of "dereliction of duty" after being slow to react to the truck accident and subsequent violence, he said.

Almost three million domestic and foreign tourists visit the Taj Mahal annually, more than any other attraction in India.

Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built it in memory of his queen Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631.

In July, the Taj was voted as one the world's new "Seven Wonders" in a mobile phone text message and internet poll.