Impact of Air Pollution on Red Fort
Introduction
The iconic Red Fort in Delhi is experiencing significant damage due to rising air pollution. A study titled, ‘Characterization of Red Sandstone and Black Crust to Analyze Air Pollution Impacts on a Cultural Heritage Building: Red Fort, Delhi, India’ has been conducted to understand these impacts.
Research Team
- The research was a collaborative effort between India’s Department of Science and Technology and Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI).
- Scientists involved were from IIT Roorkee, IIT Kanpur, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Major Findings
- Presence of flaking of red sandstone, blistering of plastered walls, increasing dampness, and salt efflorescence in the arches.
- Formation of black crusts consisting mainly of gypsum, bassanite, weddellite, quartz, and microcline, linked to air pollution.
- High concentrations of heavy metals in black crust samples, attributed to fossil fuel burning, vehicular emissions, and construction activities.
Pollutant Levels and Effects
- High levels of PM2.5, PM10, and NO2 exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
- The study notes higher annual average concentrations of PM10 as a continuous threat.
- Degradation processes include sulfation on surfaces and internal crystallization stress causing cracks.
Recommendations
- Implementing a maintenance cleaning program and applying stone protectors to prevent black crust formation.
- Consideration of long-range air pollution data to analyze impacts on Cultural Heritage Buildings (CHBs).
Environmental and Structural Changes
- The Fort was historically protected by a moat on three sides, with the eastern side facing the Yamuna River, which has now been altered.
- The current area around the Fort is occupied by the Inner Delhi Ring Road, contributing to increased vehicular pollution.