India's Supreme Court has ordered the Agra Development Authority to immediately cease all commercial activity within a 500-meter radius of the peripheral wall of the Taj Mahal.
The white marble of the Taj Mahal was noticed to be turning a hazy shade of yellowish green due to increasing pollution nearby: carbon nanoparticles in the air are causing the marble surface of the mausoleum to slowly lose its luster, according to a study that addresses why the iconic monument is fading.
The Supreme Court was informed that a similar ruling was issued in May 2000, but needs to be reiterated.
"We allow a prayer that reads: 'Instruct the Agra Development Authority to cease any commercial activity within 500 meters of the boundary/peripheral wall of the Taj Mahal monument, which must comply with Article 14.' Constitution of India," the Supreme Court stated in its ruling.
The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Officials maintain a no-go area 500 meters around the structure for construction and enforce strict vehicle regulations. There is also a ban on burning firewood near the monument and municipal solid waste and agricultural waste throughout the territory.