Shivaji Park to Tackle Dust Pollution with Grass Planting
Shivaji Park, one of Mumbai’s iconic public spaces, has been facing growing environmental concerns, with dust pollution becoming a major issue for residents and park-goers. Located in Dadar, the park is a popular spot for sports enthusiasts, walkers, and tourists. However, its barren topography and the deterioration of the grass cover have led to a significant increase in dust pollution in the surrounding area. To address these concerns, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has taken a significant step by directing the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to disallow any digging activities on the park grounds and to undertake immediate measures to plant grass.
The MPCB’s directive follows a detailed consultation with environmental experts, who recommended that the best solution to control dust pollution was to revitalise the soil and promote grass growth. “Earlier, there was a proposal to remove the existing top layer of soil, but after expert consultations, we ruled it out. Instead, we have directed the BMC to enhance soil fertility to support grass growth. This approach will prevent the displacement of dust from the ground,” stated Siddhesh Kadam, MPCB Chairperson. The BMC has been tasked with planting native grass seedlings in patches across the park’s surface, with a deadline set for completion before the monsoon season arrives in June.
In addition to the grass planting initiative, the MPCB has instructed the BMC to appoint a contractor to maintain the park year-round. This includes ensuring that no digging activities occur during events or public gatherings, which have previously contributed to the displacement of dust. The MPCB’s stringent measures come after months of complaints from local residents, who have expressed their concerns over the rising levels of dust in the area. The pollution has been exacerbated by the loose red soil that constitutes the park’s top layer, which is easily displaced by wind, creating a persistent dust problem. The park’s upkeep is now a top priority for the BMC to ensure that future activities do not worsen the pollution levels.
The directive also includes a proposal for a mini Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) to be installed at Shivaji Park, which would provide non-potable water to irrigate the ground and maintain the grass cover. Kadam highlighted that the current borewells at the park, which supply water for sprinkling, have started to turn saline due to seawater intrusion. The STP would help address this issue by drawing water from a nearby sewage line, ensuring a sustainable water source for park maintenance. While the tendering process for grass planting is already underway, the STP proposal will be pursued in a subsequent phase to further bolster the park’s environmental sustainability.
From a civic standpoint, the MPCB’s actions aim to safeguard public health and enhance the quality of life for Mumbai’s residents. Shivaji Park’s role in the city’s social and cultural life cannot be overstated, and its preservation is essential not only for local recreational activities but also for the broader environmental health of the area. By addressing the issue of dust pollution, these measures will not only make the park a cleaner, safer space for its visitors but also serve as a model for urban green spaces across the city. The move to plant grass and improve the park’s overall environmental footprint underscores a commitment to both civic wellbeing and sustainable urban development, ensuring that Mumbai’s public spaces are more resilient in the face of growing environmental challenges.
