Preservation, conservation and restoration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Delhi and Agra

A long-standing tradition of preservation and restoration has successfully mitigated the degradation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Delhi and Agra, including the Red Fort Complex. These monuments, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), have faced deterioration due to factors such as political shifts, vandalism, natural wear, urbanization, and industrial encroachment. The ASI's restoration efforts, ongoing since the early 20th century, have achieved significant success in reviving original components across multiple sites, including Humayun’s Tomb Complex, Red Fort Complex, Taj Mahal, and Agra Fort Complex. Phased restoration strategies have ensured satisfactory conservation outcomes, demonstrating effective long-term preservation practices.

Kaur, G., Singh, S., Ahuja, A., & Singh, N. D. (2020). Preservation, conservation and restoration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Delhi and Agra. Natural Stone and World Heritage, 142–150. https://doi.org/10.1201/9780429286391-6