A groundbreaking study has revealed the remarkable environmental benefits of a bamboo plantation along the Yamuna river in Delhi. Commissioned by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and executed by Delhi Technological University (DTU), the research found that the bamboo grove at Baansera on the Yamuna floodplain acts as a powerful natural filter, significantly improving air quality and moderating local temperatures compared to other green and urban zones in the capital.
Key Findings: Cleaner Air and Cooler Temperatures
The detailed investigation was carried out by DTU's department of environmental engineering over two separate four-day periods: October 28-31 and November 19-22. Scientists measured a range of critical parameters, including ambient and soil temperature, soil moisture, organic carbon, and levels of air pollutants like NO₂, SO₂, O₃, CO, PM2.5, and PM10.
The results were striking. Baansera recorded at least a 20% improvement in air quality, with its average Air Quality Index (AQI) outperforming heavily built-up locations. For instance, during the first assessment phase, the four-day average AQI was 325 at ITO, 327 at Patparganj, and 321 at Nehru Nagar. In contrast, Baansera Park registered a notably better AQI of 296.
Professor Pratik Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of DTU, explained that a second round of three-day assessments further compared neighbouring areas. The data showed average AQI levels of 373 in Mayur Vihar Extension, 349 at the Yamuna floodplains (general), 328 at Amrut Biodiversity Park, 326 at Lodhi Garden, and 372 at ISBT Sarai Kale Khan. Despite having a highway on one side, Baansera maintained a lower AQI of 311 during this period.
The Cooling Power of Bamboo
Beyond air purification, the study highlighted bamboo's exceptional role in combating urban heat. The research found that the ambient air temperature (measured up to 6 feet from the ground) at Baansera was 9.7% lower than other green spaces and parks.
Collectively, four urban green spaces—Baansera, Amrut Biodiversity Park, Lodhi Garden, and the Yamuna floodplains—recorded ambient temperatures that were 19.2% lower than urban zones like Mayur Vihar Extension and ISBT Sarai Kale Khan. The report specifically noted, "Mixed vegetation in Lodhi Garden and Amrut Biodiversity Park contributed to temperature reduction and pollutant buffering. However, bamboo plantation at Baansera performed significantly better, showing a pronounced cooling effect along with lower AQI."
Expert Validation and Public Perception
The findings have significant implications for urban planning in polluted megacities. Professor Anil Haritash of DTU's environmental engineering department stated, "The study affirms that urban bamboo-based green infrastructure can act as an effective buffer against air pollution, contributing to localised cooling, mitigation of the urban heat island effect, reduction of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants, and overall improvement in environmental health in densely populated cities."
DTU also conducted a field survey at Baansera, gathering responses from 100 visitors across diverse age groups. The public perception strongly aligned with the scientific data: 98% of respondents reported feeling improved air quality, lower ambient temperatures, and enhanced thermal comfort within the park compared to the surrounding areas.
This comprehensive study, directed by the Lieutenant Governor's office, provides concrete evidence for the strategic use of bamboo plantations as a nature-based solution to Delhi's persistent environmental challenges, offering a blueprint for sustainable urban development.
