New Delhi: In a landmark environmental decision, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has declared 673.32 hectares of the Central Ridge as a Reserved Forest, giving long-awaited legal protection to one of the capital’s most ecologically sensitive green zones.
The decision, taken under Section 20 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, aims to strengthen Delhi’s green cover, protect biodiversity, and curb rising pollution levels in the national capital.
Central Ridge Gets Full Legal Protection After Three Decades
The Central Ridge area – often called Delhi’s “green lungs” – had been awaiting final legal protection for nearly 30 years.
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With this notification, the Delhi government has officially brought the long-pending process to completion, ensuring strict conservation measures for the region.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called it a historic milestone in protecting Delhi’s natural heritage and ecological balance.
Key Location in the Heart of Delhi
The newly notified Reserved Forest lies in the West Zone of the Delhi Forest Department and connects key areas including:
- Sardar Patel Marg
- Rashtrapati Bhavan estate surroundings
- Upper Ridge Road corridor
The Central Ridge is part of the ancient Aravalli mountain range and plays a crucial role in maintaining Delhi’s environmental stability.
Large-Scale Plantation of Native Tree Species Planned
Following the declaration, the government has announced an extensive afforestation drive in the region.
The forest area will see plantation of indigenous species such as:
- Neem
- Peepal
- Jamun
These native trees are expected to improve biodiversity, enhance air quality, and restore the natural ecosystem of the Ridge.
Expansion of Protected Ridge Area in Delhi
With this latest notification, the Delhi government has significantly expanded the city’s protected forest cover.
According to official data:
- Total Ridge area notified as Reserved Forest: 4,754.14 hectares
- Earlier (October 24, 2025): 4,080.82 hectares of Southern Ridge declared Reserved Forest
- Latest addition: 673.32 hectares of Central Ridge
Long-Pending Legal Process Finally Completed
Officials noted that although all five Ridge areas were initially notified under Section 4 of the Indian Forest Act in 1994, final legal protection had remained pending for decades.
The current government has now completed the legal process, ensuring permanent protection status for the ecologically critical region.
Government’s Focus on Environment and Pollution Control
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized that the decision is part of a broader strategy to:
- Strengthen Delhi’s environmental security
- Expand urban green cover
- Protect biodiversity corridors
- Reduce pollution levels in the capital
The move is expected to play a key role in improving the city’s air quality in the long term.
