Publications
Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 Variants by Wastewater-Based Surveillance as a Sustainable and Pragmatic Approach—A Case Study of Jaipur (India)
Wastewater-based surveillance successfully identified the emergence of the B.1.617.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 in Jaipur, India, nearly two months earlier than clinical case reports. This study demonstrates that sewage monitoring can predict the advent of epidemiologically significant variants with high genome coverage (94.39%), providing a faster and more sustainable alternative to traditional clinical genomic surveillance. By analyzing samples from 11 wastewater treatment plants between February and June 2021, researchers detected the B.1 variant in late February and the B.1.617.2 variant in early March, correlating with later clinical data. The approach offers a pragmatic tool for public health decision-making by tracking viral mutations and strain diversity in real time.
Anthropogenic and geogenic influences on peri-urban aquifers in semi-arid regions: insights from a case study in northeast Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Groundwater in northeast Jaipur, India, faces significant quantity and quality challenges due to overabstraction and geogenic contamination. A two-year study revealed that while anthropogenic activities primarily reduce groundwater levels, natural sources—such as high nitrate (up to 550 mg/L) and total dissolved solids (TDS >500 mg/L)—dominate water quality issues, with urbanization exacerbating these problems. However, historic reservoirs play a crucial role in improving both quantity and quality by enhancing recharge. The findings suggest that artificial recharge structures could be key to sustainable water supply management, emphasizing the need for groundwater protection in peri-urban areas.
A Camera-Trap Home-Range Analysis of the Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) in Jaipur, India
A two-year camera-trap study in Jaipur, India, revealed that Indian leopards (Panthera pardus fusca) exhibit overlapping home ranges without territorial exclusivity. Analyzing 23,208 trap-hours of data from the Jhalana Reserve Forest, researchers identified 25 leopards (8 males, 17 females), finding median home-range sizes of 305.9 hectares for males and 170.3 hectares for females. While male overlap was higher at 10.33%, female overlap averaged just 3.97%. Notably, seven females displayed familial home-range overlaps, with daughters establishing territories adjacent to or within their natal areas. The study underscores camera trapping as a valuable tool for mapping leopard territories and understanding dispersal patterns influenced by familial relationships.
Dependence of the leopardPanthera pardus fuscain Jaipur, India, on domestic animals
In the Jhalana Reserve Forest of Jaipur, India, leopards exhibit near-total dependence on domestic animals as prey, with dogs, cats, goats, and cattle making up 89.5% of their diet during the dry season (November 2017–April 2018). Analysis of 132 scat samples revealed that feral dogs were the most frequently consumed species (44%), followed by domestic cats (13%), goats (16%), and cattle (15%). While wild prey, such as rodents and small mammals, were present in their diet, their frequency was significantly lower. This study highlights how leopards in human-dominated landscapes can thrive on domestic animals, potentially providing an ecosystem service by controlling feral dog populations, though this also exposes them to risks like canine distemper virus. The findings underscore the adaptability of leopards and the need for conservation strategies that account for their reliance on domestic prey.
Estimation of fuel potential of faecal sludge in a water scarce city, a case study of Jaipur Urban, India
Faecal sludge (FS) from urban Jaipur, a water-scarce city, exhibits significant fuel potential with a high heating value of 13.96 MJ/kg and total solids ranging from 7 to 9%. This study validates the feasibility of converting FS into a marketable energy product, offering a pragmatic solution for resource recovery in cities adopting non-sewer sanitation systems. The research targeted onsite sanitation systems across Jaipur to collect FS samples, analyzing their heat capacity while comparing experimental data with existing literature. The findings suggest that FS could serve as an alternative fuel source, aligning with India's faecal sludge and septage management (FSSM) policy aimed at sustainable urban sanitation solutions.
Hydrochemical Characterization for Groundwater Suitability in a Semi-Arid Area in Sanganer Block, Jaipur District, Rajasthan
Groundwater in the semi-arid Sanganer block of Jaipur, Rajasthan, is predominantly unsuitable for both drinking and irrigation due to high concentrations of total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride (Cl⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and fluoride (F⁻), particularly during dry periods. Hydrochemical analysis reveals a Ca-Na-HCO₃ type, with evaporation as the dominant process shaping its chemistry, while anthropogenic activities contribute to partial pollution. The study also finds that groundwater is corrosive, limiting suitable piping materials for water supply systems. Additionally, silicate weathering significantly influences sodium and potassium contributions. Researchers analyzed samples during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods using standard hydrochemical methods to assess suitability for various uses.
Spatio-temporal impact assessment of land use / land cover (LU-LC) change on land surface temperatures over Jaipur city in India
Jaipur, India, has experienced significant urban growth between 2008 and 2011, leading to substantial increases in land surface temperatures (LST) across various land use/land cover (LU-LC) categories. The study found a notable rise in LST during this period, with average temperature increases of 2.6 °C in winter and 1.47 °C in summer. This trend is attributed to the rapid expansion of built-up areas at the expense of green spaces and open lands, as evidenced by the rising percentage of impervious surface area (ISA). The research utilized Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data to analyze spatial variations in LST, providing insights into the impact of urbanization on temperature dynamics. These findings highlight the urgent need for sustainable urban planning to mitigate the effects of urban heat islands.
Waterborne pathogen monitoring in Jaipur, India reveals potential microbial risks of urban groundwater supply
A study on waterborne pathogens in Jaipur, India, reveals that conventional 100 mL grab sampling for E. coli may underestimate microbial risks in urban groundwater supplies. Despite the absence of culturable E. coli in 90% of samples (n=20) over a 10-day period, advanced methods like dead-end ultrafiltration (DEUF) and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) detected genes associated with protozoan and bacterial pathogens (Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and enterotoxigenic E. coli) in three out of nine groundwater samples (volume 59 to 122.4 liters). Two of these positive DEUF samples corresponded to grab samples that tested negative for culturable E. coli, highlighting the limitations of traditional monitoring methods. This research underscores the need for more sensitive techniques to accurately assess and manage pathogen-specific risks in drinking water supplies.
Review of environment responsiveness of building regulations in Jaipur
Building regulations in Jaipur, India, are found to be inadequately responsive to the city's unique geo-climatic and socioeconomic conditions, which pose significant challenges for sustainable urban development. The study highlights a general lack of tailored regulatory interventions that address the specific environmental demands of Jaipur's diverse climate zones and resource availability. Researchers analyzed existing building codes and by-laws, revealing a prototypic approach to urban planning in India that often overlooks local ecological and socioeconomic nuances. The findings underscore the need for context-specific regulations to ensure resilience and sustainability in urban landscapes.
Assessment of land surface temperature variation due to change in elevation of area surrounding Jaipur, India
A consistent inverse linear relationship between land surface temperature (LST) and elevation was observed in the Jaipur, India region, with LST decreasing by 3.5 °C to 4.6 °C per 1000 m of horizontal elevation change. This effect is less pronounced than vertical separation (5.0 °C–10.0 °C per 1000 m). The study used MODIS LST data and ASTER digital elevation models, revealing that elevation must be considered when analyzing spatial LST distribution in large urban areas like Jaipur to rationalize temperature variations across different locations.
Assessment of spatio-temporal variations in air quality of Jaipur city, Rajasthan, India
A severe deterioration of air quality in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is driven by high concentrations of suspended particulate matter (SPM) and PM10, particularly in winter and summer, with specific hotspots like Vidhyadhar Nagar, Civil Lines, Hawa Mahal, Kishanpole, and Aadarsh Nagar showing critical pollution levels. The study, analyzing data from 2004 to 2015, found that while NOX and SO2 concentrations remained within CPCB standards, the spatial distribution of Air Quality Index (AQI) revealed strong positive autocorrelation with weather parameters such as relative humidity, temperature, and wind speed. Using geo-spatial and geo-statistical techniques, including Ordinary Least Squares regression and bivariate Moran’s I analysis, researchers identified significant correlations between AQI and weather conditions during summer and winter seasons. This combination of GIS and statistical analyses highlights critical areas needing targeted interventions to mitigate air pollution in Jaipur.
An Analysis of Domestic Water Consumption in Jaipur, India
Domestic water consumption in Jaipur, India, varies significantly with household type and size. Standalone households consume 183 liters per person per day on average, while apartments use slightly more at 215 liters. Bathing and toilet flushing account for the highest water usage in both types of housing, with over 40% of households reporting no shower use. Notably, per capita consumption decreases as family size increases, particularly in standalone houses. The study used a questionnaire-based survey involving 90+ households to gather data on household characteristics, indoor and outdoor water use activities, frequencies, durations, and volumes. Cluster analysis and one-way ANOVA were employed to analyze the results, revealing key insights into water use behavior and attitudes.
Performance analysis of 1MW grid connected photovoltaic power plant in Jaipur, India
A performance analysis of the 1 MW grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Jaipur, India, revealed that its annual performance ratio consistently increased over three years due to improved grid availability. Monthly performance ratios ranged from 53% to 83%, with values derived using Excel, PV-syst, and System Advisory Model (SAM) showing close agreement. The study also calculated the levelized electricity cost based on power generation data from 2013 to 2015, providing insights into the economic viability of grid-connected solar plants in the region.
Prediction of Land-Surface Temperatures of Jaipur City Using Linear Time Series Model
A linear time series (LTS) model developed for predicting land-surface temperature (LST) in Jaipur, India, demonstrates high accuracy with mean absolute error (MAE) ranging from 0.292 to 0.353 and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) from 0.098 to 0.123. The model, validated using LST data from 2014, shows a strong correlation (average R² of 0.95) between predicted and measured temperatures. Utilizing remote sensing data from MODIS and ASTER sensors, the study incorporates enhanced vegetation index (EVI), elevation, and historical LST to forecast future temperatures effectively. This approach provides a robust tool for analyzing urban heat island (UHI) effects, applicable to various urban studies.
Morphology of Atmospheric Particles over Semi-Arid Region (Jaipur, Rajasthan) of India: Implications for Optical Properties
A study on atmospheric particles over Jaipur, Rajasthan, reveals that mineral dust aerosols with high hematite content (~5.68%) can significantly alter their optical properties, leading to both underestimation (by ~5.6%) and overestimation (up to 9.1%) of Single Scattering Albedo (SSA) at 550 nm wavelength when modeled as equivalent spheres. The research, conducted during late winter 2012, identified a predominance of 'Layered', 'Angular', and 'Flattened' particles with aspect ratios (AR) around 1.4 and circularity parameters (CIR) near 0.8, indicating high non-sphericity. The findings underscore the importance of regionally representative dust morphological data for accurate estimation of mineral dust's radiative forcing, particularly in semi-arid regions like Jaipur, adjacent to the Thar Desert.
Measuring quality of work life among workers in handicraft industries of Jaipur
A study on Jaipur's handicraft industries reveals that the quality of work life for workers is significantly influenced by three key factors: working environment, job security, and cooperation with co-workers. These factors are critical not only for worker well-being but also for organizational performance. The research, conducted through a questionnaire survey of 120 workers across four handicraft industries, highlights that ergonomic interventions could substantially improve work conditions, reduce musculoskeletal disorders, and boost productivity. This finding underscores the potential of targeted ergonomics to enhance both worker health and economic output in small-scale industries, which play a vital role in India's economy.
Spatio-temporal Assessment of Land Use/ Land Cover Dynamics and Urban Heat Island of Jaipur City using Satellite Data
Jaipur City, India, has experienced significant intensification and expansion of its Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect from 2000 to 2011. The study, using Landsat satellite data, found an average rise of 2.99°C in summer surface temperatures, with new suburbs showing increases of 2° to 4°C. This UHI expansion correlates inversely with vegetation cover and positively with built-up areas, indicating that rapid urbanization has reduced green spaces while increasing land surface temperatures (LST). The research highlights the spatial-temporal dynamics of LULC changes and their direct impact on UHI phenomena in Jaipur, providing critical insights for urban planning and climate adaptation strategies.
Techno-economic analysis of solar photovoltaic power plant for garment zone of Jaipur city
A techno-economic analysis reveals that off-site solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants offer significant financial advantages over on-site options for the garment zone in Jaipur, India. The study estimated a 2011 energy demand of 2.21 MW and proposed a 2.5 MW solar PV plant requiring 13.14 acres of land. Off-site plants demonstrated superior performance with an internal rate of return (IRR) of 15.10%, net present value (NPV) of 249.78 million INR, and a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of Rs. 11.40 per kWh—markedly better than on-site counterparts. The analysis also highlighted shorter payback periods for off-site plants, underscoring their economic viability in addressing Jaipur's growing energy needs while mitigating land scarcity challenges.
Spatio-temporal Urban Growth Modeling of Jaipur, India
Jaipur, India, experienced a 63% increase in urban land development from 1989 to 2005, driven by the conversion of agricultural and barren lands into urban areas. This rapid expansion, characterized by rising density and suburban growth along city peripheries, highlights significant unplanned and informal urbanization trends. The study employed a rule-based classification system, Markov modeling, GIS, and Landsat satellite data to quantify spatial-temporal urban changes over 16 years (1989–2005). Statistical analyses confirmed the Markov model's effectiveness in predicting land-use transitions, underscoring its utility for urban planning. These findings suggest that current planning policies may struggle to address future unplanned growth, posing challenges for sustainable development.
Water Consumption Pattern of Jaipur City (India)
Jaipur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rajasthan, faces severe water scarcity due to declining groundwater levels and exponential population growth. Despite dwindling resources, public behavior regarding water conservation remains unchanged, with excessive usage persisting due to low awareness. The study highlights that urban development authorities can optimize existing water distribution systems by addressing this gap through media campaigns and public awareness programs. This approach aims to mitigate the acute drinking water shortage affecting the city.
‘Full-Cost Recovery’: Producing Differentiated Water Collection Practices and Responses to Centralized Water Networks in Jaipur, India
The expansion of Jaipur's centralized water-supply network, coupled with full-cost-recovery policies, has exacerbated disparities in drinking water access. This study reveals that spatially uneven network integration and intermittent water flow, combined with historical socio-economic differences, have led to varied adaptive responses among households—such as waiting for water, constructing private tubewells, or relying on private tanker vendors—which further alter social power dynamics. While the public water-supply system remains partially reformed, its inefficiency and inability to recover costs have made privatization appear inevitable. However, the study questions whether such reforms are necessary, highlighting the systemic challenges in infrastructure prioritization and cost-setting within the public utility.
“Why Can't You Say You Are from Bangladesh?”: Demographic Anxiety and Hindu Nationalist Common Sense in the Aftermath of the 2008 Jaipur Bombings
The study reveals how demographic anxiety, fueled by Hindu nationalist narratives and governmental surveillance practices, shapes perceptions of Bangladeshi immigrants and Indian Muslims in Jaipur. The 2008 bombings, incorrectly linked to Bangladeshi infiltrators, exposed the role of identity documentation and media discourse in reinforcing stereotypes that influence urban space struggles. The term 'Bangladeshi' emerged as a flexible signifier, encapsulating varied ways of identifying local populations, particularly impacting Jaipur's 'Bangladeshi Basti,' which faced heightened police scrutiny. The research combines personal observations, media analysis, and archival data to illustrate how governmental legibility practices and common sense reinforce each other, with material consequences for marginalized communities.
Ergonomic Design Issues in Some Craft Sectors of Jaipur
A significant finding from this study is that work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in Jaipur's craft sectors—blue pottery, handloom, and gota patti—are driven by complex risk factors that extend beyond physical design issues. While tools and workstations play a role, the research reveals that non-physical factors such as work/rest cycles, process design, physical exercise, and training are equally critical in mitigating these risks. The study employed a rigorous, multi-method approach including Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), OVAKO for postural analysis, and the Occupational Repetitive Action Index (OCRA) and Strain Index (SI) to quantify repetitiveness and strain. These methods collectively underscored the hazardous nature of current working conditions in these sectors, emphasizing the need for holistic interventions that address both physical and non-physical design elements.
Evaluating ergonomic risk factors in non-regulated stone carving units of Jaipur
Stone carving in Jaipur, India, poses significant ergonomic risks to workers, with findings indicating that the majority of activities fall into high-risk categories for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and injuries. The study, involving 75 male workers across three sections of a stone carving unit, employed non-invasive tools such as REBA, RULA, and OCRA, along with psychophysical measures like body part discomfort maps and perceived exertion scales. Objective measurements revealed a working heart rate of 112.4 beats per minute after 30 minutes, classifying the work as moderately heavy. High scores in postural analyses (REBA: 13/13; RULA: 7/7) further underscored the vulnerability to MSDs. The research highlights the urgent need for ergonomic interventions, including tool and workstation redesign, to mitigate these risks, suggesting collaboration with NGOs, political parties, and human rights departments for implementation.
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