The Central Ridge area – often referred to as Delhi’s “green lungs” – had been awaiting complete legal protection for almost 30 years.
New Delhi: In a significant environmental decision, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced 673.32 hectares of the Central Ridge as a Reserved Forest, providing long-awaited statutory protection to one of the capital’s most ecologically sensitive green zones.
The decision, taken under Section 20 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, is aimed at strengthening Delhi’s green cover, safeguarding biodiversity, and reducing rising pollution levels in the national capital.
Central Ridge Receives Full Legal Protection After Three Decades
The Central Ridge area – often referred to as Delhi’s “green lungs” – had been awaiting complete legal protection for nearly 30 years.
Read Also: Delhi Govt Launches Major Drive to Restore 77 Water Bodies Across Capital, Sets 90-Day Revival Plan
With this notification, the Delhi government has officially completed the long-pending process, ensuring strict conservation measures for the region.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described it as a historic milestone in preserving 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 forms part of the ancient Aravalli mountain range and plays a vital 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 initiative in the region.
The forest area will include plantation of indigenous species such as:
- Neem
- Peepal
- Jamun
These native trees are expected to enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and help restore the Ridge’s natural ecosystem.
Expansion of Protected Ridge Area in Delhi
With this latest notification, the Delhi government has significantly increased 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 originally 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 formalities, ensuring permanent protection status for this ecologically critical region.
Government’s Focus on Environment and Pollution Control
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stressed 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 an important role in improving the city’s air quality in the long term.