IIT-B Proposes Grass and Watering Plan to Combat Dust at Shivaji Park

IIT-B Proposes Grass and Watering Plan to Combat Dust at Shivaji Park

To address the growing dust pollution at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park, experts from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) have suggested a combination of watering the ground and planting grass as a means of reducing airborne dust particles. The recommendation, presented in a report to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), outlines a phased approach to combat the dust problem that has been affecting the park for several years.

According to IIT-B’s Environmental Science and Engineering Department, the watering of the park’s grounds twice a day is an effective way to prevent fine soil particles from becoming airborne, especially during the dry months. In addition to the watering plan, the experts have proposed planting grass in phases over the next six months. The idea is that the grass will act as a natural barrier, further curbing the spread of dust while enhancing the park’s greenery. The proposal comes in response to numerous complaints from residents who have been concerned about the rising dust levels, particularly since 2021 when 250 truckloads of soil were added for beautification purposes. This additional soil, combined with the park’s existing 70 percent soil content, has contributed to the increase in dust pollution, especially after 10 a.m. when dust levels tend to peak and persist throughout the day.

In response to these concerns, BMC’s G North ward had previously removed nine inches of soil from the park, and IIT-B’s team has requested an extension to study the soil pattern further in a bid to find a more permanent solution. Despite the well-intentioned plan, the water spraying initiative, which has already begun, has faced some criticism from residents. Many have expressed dissatisfaction with the BMC’s reliance on water sprinkling, pointing out that it has been tried before without significant success. Moreover, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) had set a 15-day deadline for BMC to address the dust pollution, which expired on 21 January, further fueling public frustration. While the proposed measures are set to take effect in phases, the effectiveness of the plan will ultimately depend on how well the grass planting and watering strategies are implemented. Given the persistent nature of the dust problem, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will bring about a noticeable improvement in air quality and park conditions.