India, July 28 -- The Delhi Development Authority (DDA), under the guidance of Lieutenant Governor Sardar Taranjit Singh Sandhu, has launched Phase I of an ecological restoration project across nearly 120 hectares of the Delhi Ridge, using a scientifically designed grid-based, multi-tier plantation model with indigenous tree and shrub species. The initiative aims to restore the Ridge's native forest ecosystem rather than simply increasing green cover. The restoration is being carried out across the South Central Ridge, Central Ridge, Kamla Nehru Ridge and Nanakpura Ridge in accordance with the approved Working Plan for the Delhi Ridge. It forms part of the 70 Lakh Plantation Mission launched by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign on July 7, 2026.
During his visit to the Ridge in May, the Lieutenant Governor reviewed its ecological condition and directed the DDA to undertake scientific restoration by removing invasive vegetation, replacing it with native species and ensuring sustained post-plantation maintenance. Under Phase I, the DDA plans to remove around 16,240 invasive trees and shrubs and plant nearly one lakh indigenous trees along with 81,700 native shrubs. The objective is to restore the original structure, composition and ecological functions of Delhi's Ridge forests. A key feature of the project is its grid-based plantation system, under which each plantation grid will comprise five native trees and four native shrubs planted at scientifically determined spacing to promote optimum canopy development, healthy root growth, adequate sunlight penetration and efficient use of resources. Designated ficus clusters will also be created at regular intervals to improve long-term ecological stability, while the multi-tier plantation model will recreate natural forest layers through canopy trees, middle-storey vegetation, understorey shrubs and ground vegetation.
As part of the plantation season, which began in the first week of July and will continue until mid-September, the DDA has planted 8,29,313 saplings across Delhi, including 35,570 trees and 7,93,743 shrubs. In the Ridge alone, 27,062 saplings, comprising 12,506 trees and 14,556 shrubs, have already been planted. The programme also seeks to encourage public participation through partnerships with Resident Welfare Associations, educational institutions, religious organisations, corporate bodies and volunteer groups to help conserve Delhi's native forests and strengthen the Capital's environmental resilience.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.