Archive · 3 Aug 2026
IIT Study Links Delhi Air Pollution to Humayun's Tomb Decay
Scientists from two Indian engineering schools studied a famous old tomb in Delhi.
They found a dark crust on the stone that is made mostly of a mineral called gypsum.
This crust forms when pollution in the air mixes with dust and moisture on the stone.
The crust makes the stone weaker and more likely to break.
The researchers suggest cleaning the crust regularly, using protective coatings, and cutting down on pollution to keep the tomb safe.
IIT Roorkee and IIT Kanpur researchers found black crust on Humayun's Tomb accelerates sandstone decay.
The crust is mainly gypsum formed by sulfur dioxide reacting with calcium dust and moisture.
Thickest crust accumulates in rain‑sheltered rooftop areas, thinner on exposed surfaces.
Study recommends periodic cleaning, protective coatings, and pollution source reduction.
Findings provide scientific evidence linking air pollution to heritage monument deterioration.
- Who
- Researchers from IIT Roorkee and IIT Kanpur
- What
- Study linking air pollution to accelerated decay of Humayun's Tomb
- When
- Published in the International Journal of Architectural Heritage
- Where
- Humayun's Tomb, Delhi, India
- Why
- To provide evidence for conservation measures and highlight pollution impact
- Monument
- Humayun's Tomb
- Location
- Delhi, India
- Study Authors
- Gaurav Kumar, Bhola Ram Gurjar, Chandra Shekhar Prasad Ojha, Mukesh Sharma
- Key Finding
- Black crust mainly gypsum accelerates decay
- Recommendation
- Periodic cleaning and pollution reduction
