India, June 23 -- The Delhi Government has accelerated eco-restoration and wildlife conservation initiatives at the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, undertaking large-scale plantation and habitat management measures aimed at strengthening the city's ecological resilience and restoring degraded sections of the Aravalli ecosystem. According to the Forest and Wildlife Department, more than 10 lakh native and ridge-specific trees will be planted across the Southern Ridge as part of a scientific eco-restoration programme designed to transform former mining areas and degraded landscapes into self-sustaining forest ecosystems. Also Read - ED raids Delhi nightclub owner, others in 2021 Mundra port drugs seizure case Environment, Forest and Wildlife Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa described Asola Bhatti as one of the capital's most significant ecological assets. "The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Delhi's most valuable ecological assets and a critical part of the Aravalli ecosystem. Our vision is not merely to plant trees but to scientifically restore degraded landscapes into self-sustaining forest ecosystems that support wildlife, improve air quality and strengthen Delhi's environment," Sirsa said. The minister added that the plantation initiative would help revive Delhi's natural landscape while conserving Also Read - CM Gupta: New Jan 2025 cut-off expands rehabilitation coverage native biodiversity. "The plantation of over 10 lakh native trees across the Southern Ridge will significantly strengthen Delhi's green cover and help restore the natural character of the Aravalli landscape," he said. To improve habitat quality and ensure water availability for animals, the department has developed 218 waterholes across the sanctuary. Strategically located along wildlife movement corridors, these water sources are being regularly replenished with potable water, particularly during the summer season. "Water availability is essential for sustaining wildlife populations, particularly during Delhi's summer season. The development of waterholes across the sanctuary is a significant intervention that is helping improve habitat quality and supporting wildlife conservation in a meaningful way," Sirsa said. Camera traps have recorded leopards, hyenas, deer and other wildlife in the sanctuary. The restoration drive precedes the proposed 'Clean Delhi, Green Delhi' campaign, under which 70 lakh saplings are planned across the capital, while Bharat Nursery maintains nearly six lakh native saplings.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.