This refers to the article, “Saving heritage from pollution” (October 8) by Kota Sriraj. Arguably, India is one of the richest nations in the world, in terms of endowment of historical monuments whose preservation and protection is taken care of by the Archaeological Survey of India. It is a matter of concern that a couple of illustrious historical monuments in India are facing the constant threat of air pollution caused by increasing vehicular emissions stemming from the coal, rubber and plastic combustion.
Expressing serious concern over the yellowness of the outer marble surface of the Taj Mahal, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on environment has directed the ASI to submit an interim plan for its restoration, with the application of a mudpack therapy. The author's observation that the Government must see that the restoration and preservation efforts are technology-based, involving a faster implementation period, carries weight. There should be a time-bound plan to protect the monuments from pollution.