The green buffer around Agra and in patches within have contained air pollution which once posed a threat to the Taj Mahal, according to studies conducted by the Uttar Pradesh government.

The forest department says the green cover in Agra has now touched 11 percent.

At a function organised Sunday by the Society for Preservation of Healthy Environment and Heritage of Agra, hundreds of saplings were planted in Dayalbagh area.

Shabd Mishra of the Society told IANS: "We are now planning to stop soil erosion along the Yamuna."

The plantation already done by the forest department along the river bank has proved a major success with almost 100 percent survival rate.

Across the river, opposite the Taj Mahal, the Archaeological Society of India has developed a beautiful green patch at Mehtab Bagh, a major attraction for film producers.

Scores of groups in Agra are vying with one another to exceed the number of saplings planted this rainy season.

Sportsperson and activist Harvijay Bahia says saplings planted along drains and barren patches three years ago have turned into trees.