TACKLING THE DUST PROBLEM

Taupo Times, Volume III, Issue 105, 29 January 1954, Page 4

TACKLING THE DUST PROBLEM

SINCE the editorial articles published in this column on December 4th and 18th the holidays have come and gone, but the dust nuisance has remained. It has, in fact, as was to be expected, intensified with the continued dry weather and the increased motor traffic over the holidays. Dozens of visitors have commented on the fine weather, and the beauty of the Lake and its surroun ings, but in every case they have without exception, in conversation with the "Times," ended with feeling and sometimes unexpurgated references to the dust.

The "Times" previous editorial references to the dust problem in Taupo were inspired by the belief that a worthwhile reduction in the nuisance could be brought about simply enough, if motorists could be persuaded, on unsealed roads within the Borough, to travel at not more than 20 miles per hour. A number of local drivers have mentioned their agreement to the editor, and it has been noticed that more drivers have adopted this suggested speed limit. There is no doubt whatever that such a voluntary reduction in speed is something definitely worth achieving. There is also no doubt whatever that the dust nuisance in Taupo is today a menace, not only to the comfort of all road users, whether motorists or pedestrians, and to householders, who find their rooms coated with dust day after day, but a menace also to the future pro-

■ gress and prosperity of the town. • Several visitors during the recent : holidays have stated that they will think twice before comfng to Taupo again, owing to the dust. Such a reputation is easier to earn than to get rid of, and can do nothing but harm to the town. It is therefore good news, as is reported in this issue, that the Borough Council discussed this pro blem at its January meeting, and set up a committee to take action in the matter, on similar lines to suggestions made in these columns last month. Opinions expressed following the publication of those suggestions are no doubt fair samples of public reactions on the matter, and there should be little doubt that such action as may be taken by the Council's Committee will receive a good measure of public approval and support, by word and action. Both are important, for the more public approval of reduced speed on all the town's unsealed roads is expressed the sooner will the habit become a recognised local custom, recognised and followed by local motorists and visitors as well. It will be very many years before all town roads are sealed. And the high winds that raise dust cannot be stilled. But man-made dust can be reduced materially. There is no reason why Taupo cannot become known as the town where motorists are known for their eourtesy in going slow in order to reduce the dust nuisance.