the increasing level of noise pollution is posing a threat to Charminar, the historic landmark of Hyderabad, according to the National Geophysical Research Institute (ngri). Built with lime and mortar, the plastering of the 400-year-old monument may peel off because of constant increase in pollution levels and the flow of heavy traffic around it could have a bearing on the state of its foundation.

ngri has conducted numerous studies at the site and the preliminary findings have made the Archaeological Survey of India (asi) sit up and take notice. The state government acting on the advise of the asi, has decided to ban traffic in the area around the Charminar and divert it to Mir Alam Mandi road.While widening of the Mir Alam Mandi Road is going on, completing the work will mean demolishing a few buildings, which may lead to a number of other problems.