Eco-friendly steps: Entitled to get silver rating, New Town targets gold or platinum

New Town is entitled to get Silver rating under the parameters set up by Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and is now aspiring to get gold or platinum status.

It may be mentioned that after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee decided to declare New Town as a green city and not a smart city, several steps have been taken to make the township an eco friendly one. The green cover has been increased and the township has become a model township in eastern India.

IGBC green cities is a voluntary and consensus based programme. It is the first of its kind in India and addresses environmental sustainability. Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO) subjected New Town to its ratings and what needs to be done and asked its consultants their views.

The consultants in their feasibility report have opined that New Town is fit to achieve Silver rating under IGBC programme. They suggested a few more steps which should be taken to get gold or platinum rating.

Their suggestions include barrier free access to all footpaths, crossings, recreational and public spaces. Excluding water bodies, 15 per cent space should be provided for green space and open space out of 2,952 Ha. This works out to be 443 Ha of pure green and open spaces, providing footpaths along 100 % roads and providing tree shade and street lighting for comfort and safety of citizens. Steps should also be taken to improve use of renewable energy, solar power etc.

It may be mentioned that solar power is being used in New Town in some office buildings. Also, HIDCO is giving more FAR to builders intending to set up green buildings. The green coverage has already been increased. There are parks for children and senior citizens. Eco Park having land and water body is the new destination and over a lakh people visited the park on January 1.