Delhi's Central Ridge Declared as Reserved Forest

In a significant move, the Delhi government has declared the Central Ridge as a "reserved forest," enhancing conservation efforts for this vital ecological zone. This decision is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 3, which covers environmental conservation. Last Updated: 15-05-2026

Key Facts About the Delhi Ridge

• The Delhi Ridge is the northernmost extension of the ancient Aravalli Range, one of the oldest fold mountain systems in the world.
• Spanning approximately 35 kilometers, the Ridge acts as a natural geographical barrier, protecting Delhi from the hot, dry winds of Rajasthan.
• It is divided into four distinct zones: Northern Ridge, Central Ridge, South-Central Ridge, and Southern Ridge, covering almost 8,000 hectares.
• The Central Ridge, covering around 864 hectares, is a crucial ecological zone recently notified as a Reserved Forest.
• The Ridge serves as the primary carbon sink and oxygen provider for Delhi, playing a vital role in moderating the local microclimate.
• Despite urban pressures, the Ridge supports diverse fauna, including jackals, nilgai, porcupines, and numerous bird species.
• Reserved forests are notified under Section 20 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, granting them the highest degree of statutory protection.

Ecological Significance of the Delhi Ridge

The Delhi Ridge is pivotal in India's ecological conservation efforts, acting as the "green lungs" of the capital. It supports biodiversity and regulates the microclimate, aligning with India's strategic goals for sustainable urban development. The Ridge's role in absorbing pollution and providing a habitat for diverse species underscores its importance in maintaining ecological balance in a rapidly urbanizing city.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Geography - Physical geography of India, including the Aravalli Range.
• GS Paper 2: Governance - Policies related to environmental conservation and forest management.
• GS Paper 3: Environment - Conservation, environmental pollution, and degradation.
• Prelims Angle: Questions could focus on the definition and significance of reserved forests, the ecological role of the Delhi Ridge, and invasive species like Vilayati Kikar.
• Mains Angle: Analytical themes could include the challenges of urban conservation, the role of reserved forests in biodiversity protection, and the impact of invasive species.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the Delhi Ridge? The Delhi Ridge is the northernmost extension of the ancient Aravalli Range, spread across nearly 8,000 hectares in Delhi. It acts as the "green lungs" of the capital by regulating climate, absorbing pollution, and supporting biodiversity.
• What is a Reserved Forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927? A Reserved Forest is the highest category of forest protection notified under Section 20 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, where activities like grazing, hunting, and timber extraction are prohibited unless specifically permitted.
• Why is the Central Ridge ecologically important? The Central Ridge supports Tropical Dry Deciduous and Thorny Scrub Forest ecosystems and hosts native species such as Dhauk, Salai, Palash, and Babul adapted to dry rocky conditions.
• Why is Vilayati Kikar considered a threat to the Delhi Ridge? Vilayati Kikar (Prosopis juliflora) is an invasive alien species that spreads aggressively, depletes groundwater, and suppresses native Aravalli vegetation.
• Why are ecologists criticizing themed forests and Miyawaki plantations in the Ridge? Experts argue that hardscapes, artificial landscaping, and dense Miyawaki plantations are unsuitable for the Ridge’s natural dry and rocky ecosystem and may undermine genuine ecological restoration.