How is Delhi L-G Implementing Jute Carpeting for Dust Control?

Synopsis
In a bold move, Delhi's L-G V.K. Saxena champions the use of jute carpeting in parks to combat dust pollution and support local jute industries. Discover how this innovative solution not only enhances park experiences but also benefits the environment and local artisans.
Key Takeaways
- Jute carpeting is being introduced in parks to combat dust pollution.
- The initiative supports local jute farmers and artisans.
- It promotes environmentally friendly practices in urban spaces.
- Maintenance-free and cost-effective solutions are prioritized.
- This project reflects innovative governance under Delhi's L-G.
New Delhi, April 27 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative led by Delhi's Lieutenant Governor (L-G) V.K. Saxena, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has embarked on a project to implement jute carpeting on pathways, as well as walking and cycling tracks in parks, particularly those situated on the Yamuna floodplains, as confirmed by an official on Sunday.
Saxena, who also serves as the chairperson of DDA, drew on his experience from his tenure as chief of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) to guide the Authority in adopting this sustainable innovation.
This initiative not only helps in dust mitigation and preventing soil erosion from the floodplains but also provides a significant boost to jute farmers and the industry, the official noted.
“Being maintenance-free and cost-effective, we plan to implement this at parks like Baansera, Asita, Yamuna Vatiika, Amrut, and the Northern Ridge, which are rapidly becoming popular destinations for visitors. It will also support jute artisans,” the L-G shared in a social media update.
According to a statement from the DDA, the L-G initially instructed the Authority to adopt jute carpeting for the walking, cycling, and driving tracks at Asita Park, located across the Yamuna near ITO, as a measure to reduce dust pollution.
During the park's development, the L-G had recommended against the use of concrete on the floodplains; however, this led to increased dust generation on the pathways when used by walkers and cyclists, causing inconvenience and contributing to environmental dust, as explained by an official.
To address this issue, Saxena proposed the installation of loosely knitted jute carpeting on these pathways. The initial application at Asita has successfully achieved the intended dust mitigation results.
An official remarked that using jute surfaces on mud tracks has proven to be an extremely affordable solution, which also resulted in grass growing beneath the carpeting and emerging through the gaps.
“The grass growth enhanced the stability of the carpeting, helping it anchor firmly to the ground,” the official stated.
Encouraged by the positive outcome of this initiative, the L-G has instructed that this method be replicated on the tracks within the Northern Ridge, which recently underwent restoration by the DDA.
The restoration efforts commenced after Saxena visited the site earlier this month and noted the unsatisfactory conditions there.