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Ridge losing its green cover: report

Bindu Shajan Perappadan

"Lack of co-ordination among various agencies responsible for maintaining the Ridge"

NEW DELHI: The green lungs of the Capital resemble more of a commercial parkland than a reserved forest with heavy traffic flow, several broad paths, illegal constructions and no patrolling, notes the recently tabled inspection report with the Ridge Management Board (RMB).

Warning that the inspected Sanjay Van doesn't resemble the topography of a reserved forest, the report maintains "that under this circumstance the forest character of the area is not maintainable, unless drastic action is taken. Devoid of undergrowth and with ornamental plants replacing the natural forest, the city it seems is virtually devouring its green cover''.

Observing that multiple agencies and lack of political will have contributed to the fast deterioration of this reserved forest, the report has also drawn attention to the lack of co-ordination between the various agencies responsible for maintaining the Ridge.

It notes: "Despite the decision in the last Ridge Management Board meeting, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has still not proposed a date for a joint inspection of Sanjay Van. The Forest Department has also send reminders to the DDA, but with little result.''

Sanjay Van area is divided into two phases -- the old notified area and the comparatively newly notified land, which is primarily the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) area.

"The entire area has wide motorable roads and are stone lined. It is evident that these roads are being constructed in order to facilitate the movements of vehicles.

There are numerous small temples inside the notified area and more continuously keep coming up.

Though initially established by the CRPF personnel they are now being put up by individual people and farmers,'' states the report.

What adds to the worries of Ridge officials is the very high grazing pressure detected here, with distinct competition for fodder between nilgais and domesticated cattle.

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