Editor Mr.Mayank Rawat ( Chief Editor Mr. Rohit Mishra )
New Delhi: Delhi LG VK Saxena has directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to use jute carpeting on pathways and tracks in parks, especially on the Yamuna floodplain. This initiative, first implemented at Asita Park near ITO, has proven effective in reducing dust and promoting grass growth through the jute weave, which anchors the carpets firmly, according to a senior official. Saxena, who previously banned concretisation on the floodplain, initiated this cost-effective measure to address environmental concerns. Due to its success, Saxena has now ordered similar action for the Northern Ridge.
“Concretisation was forbidden on the floodplains, but this led to increased dust on tracks whenever walkers or cyclists used them,” said the official, adding, “This caused inconvenience to users and added to environmental dust.” To resolve this, Saxena instructed DDA to implement loosely-knitted jute carpeting on the tracks. The pilot project at Asita Park proved successful, mitigating dust while allowing grass to grow beneath the carpeting, further securing it to the ground.
“The use of jute also allowed grass to sprout through the gaps in the carpet, fixing it more strongly to the ground,” the official added. Encouraged by the positive outcome, Saxena directed that the same method be used on tracks in the Northern Ridge, which DDA had recently begun restoring. Saxena had visited the area earlier this month and found its condition deplorable.
In addition to combating dust and preventing soil erosion on the floodplain, the initiative also provides a boost to the jute farming industry. “This eco-friendly measure not only benefits the environment but also supports local farmers,” the official noted.
Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta recently presented a detailed plan to Prime Minister Narendra Modi aimed at rejuvenating the Yamuna River. The three-fold strategy focuses on the river’s revival, removal of encroachments, and beautification of the riverfront. The plan includes 100% sewerage treatment, the tapping of all 22 drains that flow into the Yamuna, and the installation of sewerage networks in 1,799 unauthorised colonies and 639 JJ clusters.
Restoration efforts are already underway across 16,000 hectares on both banks of the river. Completed projects include Asita East (93 ha), Amrut Biodiversity Park (108 ha), and a 16-hectare ghat area. The ‘Kalindi Aviral’ project (100 ha) is in its final phase, with other areas like Kalindi Aviral Extension (107 ha) and the remaining phase of Asita East expected to be completed by Dec 2025 and March 2026. Asita West’s second phase is slated for completion by June 2025.
Under the ghat restoration programme, platforms are being constructed to accommodate devotees and ensure scientific waste management. Old ghat ruins are being preserved by the DDA as part of the renovation efforts, with Vasudev Ghat (16 ha) already developed.
Mayank Rawat
