Central Ridge Patch Cleared for Themed Forest Project Amid Activist Concerns

When you stroll through Delhi’s Central Ridge, the symphony of rustling leaves and distant city hum usually feels timeless. This week, that quiet was broken by the unmistakable thump of bulldozers, as a modest patch of the ridge was cleared to make way for a ‘themed forest’ project commissioned by the municipal authority.

The plan, officials say, is to plant a variety of native trees, create themed zones—like a medicinal‑plant garden and a butterfly corridor—and add jogging tracks and seating areas. In theory, it sounds like a win‑win: more greenery, educational spaces, and a boost to the city’s eco‑tourism appeal.

But the reality on the ground is messier. Local environmental activists, who have long guarded the ridge’s fragile ecosystem, gathered outside the site on Saturday, waving placards that read “Save Our Ridge” and “No Greenwashing”. They argue that the clearance was carried out without proper public consultation, and that the project could disturb wildlife corridors, especially for the migratory birds that use the ridge as a stop‑over.

“We’re not against planting trees,” says Anjali Verma, a member of the Green Delhi Collective. “What worries us is the manner in which this is being done—speedy clearance, little transparency, and a lack of thorough ecological impact assessment.” She adds that the ridge is already under stress from encroachments and illegal constructions; adding another layer of development could tip the balance.

The municipal corporation, on its part, maintains that all necessary clearances have been obtained. A spokesperson told reporters that the project aligns with the city’s “Nature for All” initiative, which aims to increase green cover by 5 % over the next five years. “We have consulted experts, and the species selected are all native,” the official claimed, adding that the themed forest will serve as an educational hub for schools.

Yet, the tension remains palpable. Residents living nearby reported a sudden rise in dust and noise, and some noticed that a small stretch of the ridge’s natural trail—used by joggers and bird‑watchers—has been temporarily blocked.

Legal experts point out that under the Delhi Master Plan, any alteration to the Central Ridge requires a detailed environmental impact study and a public hearing. While the authorities say these steps were followed, activist groups allege that the documents were either superficial or withheld from public view.

What’s likely to happen next? The activists have announced a series of peaceful sit‑ins and are preparing to file a petition in the Delhi High Court, seeking a stay on further construction until an independent audit is conducted.

Meanwhile, the city’s green‑lover community remains divided. Some see the themed forest as a fresh breath of air, a chance to reconnect with nature in a concrete‑laden metropolis. Others fear it may become a glossy showcase that masks deeper ecological neglect.

Only time will tell whether the Central Ridge will emerge as a thriving, thoughtfully‑designed green space—or whether today’s clearance will be remembered as a misstep in the city’s ongoing battle to balance development with preservation.