Activist judge raises the alarm over a crematorium near the Taj Mahal

Not only is the Taj Mahal India's foremost tourist destination, it is also a leading world heritage site and its iconic white dome and minarets are among India's most recognizable cultural symbols.

As such, it is perhaps no surprise that an Indian Supreme Court judge, during a recent visit to the famous mausoleum, was concerned that its beauty was being sullied by smoke from a nearby wood-burning crematorium. Moved to action, he reportedly raised his concern with fellow judges, who in turn issued an order to the State of Uttar Pradesh to relocate the wood-burning crematorium or replace it with an electric one. 

The state government has 15 days to respond, though it is not clear what sanctions it would face if it fails to do so.