A Greener Delhi: Reviving the Ridge and Planting 70 Lakh Trees

Delhi is getting a fresh start for its environment. Recently, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a massive campaign to plant 70 lakh trees across the capital. This project, linked to the Prime Minister’s 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative, aims to transform the city's green cover and restore the famous Delhi Ridge to its former glory. This is a vital step for urban planning as we see shifts in global environmental policies, similar to how we track international cooperation in other sectors.

Saving the Delhi Ridge

The Ridge is often called the lungs of Delhi. For thirty years, it lacked final legal protection. Now, the government has decided to develop 6,300 hectares of the area into a protected forest. Amit Shah noted that the current Ridge is full of thorny, non-native trees that look green but do not help the ecosystem. The plan is to replace these with long-lasting native trees like peepal, banyan, neem, and jamun. These trees live for over 100 years and will significantly improve the air quality and biodiversity of the region.

Community Involvement and Green Future

The government wants everyone to be involved. Through the 'Mission 70 Lakh Plantation' campaign, millions of shrubs, bamboo saplings, and trees will be planted. Importantly, over 12 lakh saplings will be given to schools, Resident Welfare Associations, and citizens for free. People are encouraged to use the new Green Drive Portal to get their plants and contribute to a greener city. This sense of shared responsibility is important, just like how we maintain awareness about important legal and social updates in our country.

More Than Just Trees

The environmental push does not stop at planting trees. During the same event, Amit Shah shared plans to stop cow dung from dairy farms from entering the Yamuna river. By working with the National Dairy Development Board, the city hopes to clean the river effectively. Additionally, the government is focusing on modern transport by flagging off 300 electric buses and opening new automated vehicle testing centers. These steps show a clear commitment to making Delhi a more sustainable and cleaner city for everyone.

There’s more to life than simply increasing its speed.

By Udaipur Freelancer

This massive drive is a promise to the citizens of Delhi. With the Ridge set to be revived within four years, we are looking at a future where nature and urban life exist in better balance. Whether it is through the 'Jan Bhagidari' (people’s participation) movement or new infrastructure, the vision for a greener Delhi is finally taking root.