Taj city shivers at 1.7 degrees

Agra, Feb 9 (IANS) Temperature in the Taj city dipped to a shivering 1.7 degrees Celsius Thursday, an icy breeze neutralizing the effect of bright sunshine.

At the 17th century Taj Mahal, visitors wrapped themselves up in shawls and other woollens.

"Those without adequate cover were shivering. Chilly winds caused domestic tourists - many from southern India and Maharashtra - to almost freeze," said tourist guide Ved Gautam.

The Sri Nathji Night Shelter was packed with the homeless.

Its official Bankey Lal Maheshwari told IANS: "Our half a dozen shelters were overflowing with people as there was a sudden drop in temperature. We were thinking of winding up the shelters this week, but now it appears we may have to continue for another week."

The weather office in Lucknow said the maximum temperature Wednesday was 19.8 degrees. A day earlier the minimum temperature was 7 degrees.

The sudden drop in temperature also impacted election campaigning as party workers chose to call it a day early Wednesday when the seven-phased balloting began in Uttar Pradesh.