A South Korean tourist is bitten by a monkey at the Taj Mahal in Agra on Sunday morning, prompting questions about emergency medical response at the UNESCO World Heritage site. According to the reports, the tourist, identified by officials as Kim Meh, arrives at about 7:00 a.m. with a companion. While her companion completes entry-related tasks such as collecting items for visitors, she waits near the steps when a monkey suddenly attacks and bites her right hand, causing bleeding and pain.
Witnesses reportedly drive the monkey away and alert personnel from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the CISF, requesting an ambulance. Multiple accounts say the arrival of an ambulance is delayed by close to an hour, despite assurances that it would be immediate. The injured tourist receives first aid at the Taj Mahal’s primary health facility and is then referred to a private hospital for further treatment.
Officials and medical authorities acknowledge deficiencies in the ambulance service. One report states that disciplinary action begins against the driver and that the driver’s pay is withheld. The incident also renews attention on monkey-related safety concerns and emergency preparedness at the monument.
