Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced two green initiatives in Delhi. The second initiative, described in the brief, plans to plant over one crore saplings across roughly 6,300 hectares within the Ridge area and develop it into a forest zone over the next four years. Along with plantation efforts, the plan also aims to provide protection by instituting measures to secure the Ridge from degradation and encroachment.
Shah emphasized that the project will improve biodiversity and restore the area’s ecological health. He announced that the Delhi government will plant 70 lakh saplings citywide under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign in collaboration with residents. For the Ridge itself, more than 1 crore saplings will be planted over about four years, with measures aimed at developing the Ridge into a forest-like area and safeguarding it.
The rejuvenation effort includes replacing invasive species with native varieties such as peepal, banyan, neem and jamun. Additional components involve developing over 70 ponds, protecting archaeological structures within the Ridge, and creating themed forest areas to encourage public participation. Delhi's Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, stated that work is already underway to develop five water bodies in the Ridge.
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