Tourist left bleeding after monkey attack near Taj Mahal, ambulance delay sparks anger
New Delhi: A South Korean tourist was injured on Tuesday after she was allegedly attacked by a monkey near the Taj Mahal in Agra Uttar Pradesh. The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of visitors at one of India’s most popular tourist attractions.
The attack happened outside the Eastern Gate of the Taj Mahal where the monkey reportedly bit the woman on her hand causing a deep injury and heavy bleeding.
Delayed medical response draws sharp criticism
A video of the incident has gone viral on social media. It shows the tourist crying in pain while holding her injured hand. Local people were seen helping her reach a nearby dispensary while the person travelling with her repeatedly asked where they could get immediate medical treatment.
The incident has also drawn criticism over the delay in providing emergency medical help. Although the Archaeological Survey of India informed the health department soon after the attack an ambulance reportedly did not arrive for almost an hour leaving the injured tourist waiting for treatment. The tourist was first given medical treatment at a primary health centre before she was taken to a private hospital in a battery operated vehicle.
ASI seeks action as tourist safety comes under scrutiny
Senior Conservation Assistant Qalandar said the ASI team reached the spot immediately after receiving information about the attack. According to an India Today report he said an ambulance was called without delay but the driver did not reach the location for almost an hour.
The Archaeological Survey of India has also submitted a report to the Chief Medical Officer alleging negligence on the part of the ambulance driver. The incident has once again highlighted the ongoing monkey problem around the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many people on social media questioned whether enough steps are being taken to keep tourists safe.
Public questions visitor safety after monkey attack
One user wrote that incidents like these are one of the reasons why the number of international tourists has gone down. Another person said stricter action is needed to deal with stray animals because they can become a danger to both tourists and local people.
A third user criticised the administration saying it was disappointing that such a popular tourist destination did not have proper basic facilities like quick first aid. The user also said poor infrastructure is one of the reasons many international tourists are choosing not to visit India.
(Curated by: Amber Rashid Shah)