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Severe air pollution in the nation's capital city of New Delhi has led to the appearance of dark layers on the surfaces of the Mughal-era structure, as per.

Experts discovered that these deposits—created due to chemical interactions between particles and the stone structure—were between 0.05mm and 0.5mm deep, and might deteriorate its detailed designs if no action undertaken.

This study is the initial of its category to thoroughly analyze the impact of air pollution on this ancient landmark.

Preservation experts have repeatedly alerted about the harmful effect of pollution on historical buildings in the city and a few other states.

A few years ago, courts observed that the famous mausoleum—similarly iconic Mughal-era structure—had discolored due to air and water pollution, calling for timely preservation steps.

The research on the Red Fort, released in a peer-reviewed publication in mid-2024, was conducted from 2021 and 2023 by specialists in international institutions.

The Red Fort, built by ruler Shah Jahan, is among Delhi's most iconic cultural landmarks.

India's initial Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled the flag from the ramparts on August 16 1947, a day after sovereignty from British rule was announced. Since then, national leaders have been delivering speeches on Independence Day from the fortress of the fort.

The team reviewed Delhi's pollution data from 2021 to 2023. They then sampled the sooty layer detected on different surfaces of the fort and examined its composition.

They found that pollutants and other elements in the air had led to the black sediment to appear on the structure's surfaces and also weakened other details such as vaults, arches, and fine stone carvings.

The experts also noted signs of peeling and flaking on the surfaces.

"Airborne pollutants are well-known as key causes to the discoloration of surfaces in contact with the atmosphere. This occurrence occurs when pollutants build up over time, resulting in noticeable blackening of these structures," the report notes.

The analysis recommends the timely implementation of protective measures to safeguard the fort.

"The formation of a black crust is a ongoing phenomenon that often starts with a fine dark film, which can be removed, especially in the initial phases," the paper states.

It also says that sealants could be administered to vulnerable sections to prevent the growth of sooty layers.