🔗 Share this article The capital's polluted air is turning the renowned Red Fort dark, investigation reveals The Lal Qila was constructed by Mughal emperor Shahjahan during the 17th Century Extreme atmospheric contamination in India's metropolis of New Delhi has led to the formation of “black crusts” on the surfaces of the historic monument, as per. Scientists found that these crusts—produced due to reactions between pollutants and the stone building—were ranging from 0.05mm and 0.5mm thick, and might harm its intricate artwork if conservation efforts implemented. This research is the first of its type to extensively analyze the effects of environmental contamination on this ancient site. Experts reported that air pollution and humidity were causing erosion on the Red Fort's walls Conservationists have often warned about the harmful influence of environmental degradation on cultural sites in the capital and several other regions. A few years ago, courts stated that the famous mausoleum—a well-known historic structure—had yellowed due to pollutants, urging timely restoration measures. The analysis on the Red Fort, released in a peer-reviewed journal in mid-2024, was carried out between 2021 and 2023 by specialists based in India and Italy. The historical site, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, is a key India's most prominent cultural landmarks. India's first leader Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled the tricolor from the fort on 16 August 1947, just after sovereignty from colonial powers was announced. Since then, prime ministers have been giving speeches on August 15 from the fortress of the monument. Dark layers observed on the upper and lower windows of the monument Experts reviewed Delhi's atmospheric data from a three-year period. They then sampled the black crust found on various areas of the site and tested its composition. They discovered that airborne particles and other substances in the atmosphere had led to the black sediment to appear on the structure's walls and also harmed other features such as arches, doorways, and fine artwork. The team also found signs of swelling and flaking on the stonework. "Fine particulate matter are well-known as key factors to the darkening of materials exposed to outside air. This process occurs when pollutants settle over decades, resulting in observable staining of these areas," the report notes. The research advises the early application of conservation strategies to protect the fort. "Development of a dark layer is a ongoing occurrence that usually begins with a thin dark film, which can be treated, especially in the beginning," the study adds. It also indicates that stone protectives could be administered to vulnerable sections to prevent the development of dark deposits.