A brighter Taj Mahal

Sections of the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, northern India, will undergo a mud-pack treatment in an effort to reverse pollution damage that is yellowing the white marble building. Authorities began discussing this in June, with no starting date set yet.

Affected portions of the Taj Mahal will be covered in lime-rich clay overnight. The clay will be removed with soft nylon brushes and distilled water, hopefully taking stains and grime along with it. The process will be done one section at a time over six months in order to maintain the building’s appearance for visitors.

The Taj underwent this treatment previously in 1994, 2001 and 2008.